Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'DFPS'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, collecting and publishing this data will allow DFPS, the legislature, and stakeholders
  • I've personally met with members of the DFPS.
  • And the record shows you as Audrey O'Neill, and you're the DFPS resource witness on the...
  • Speaking to the licensed side, just from the placement perspective, DFPS licenses the operation.
  • I'm sorry, HHSC licenses the operation, and then DFPS makes the placement.
Summary: The meeting brought forward significant discussions centered on various bills related to child welfare and mental health support, particularly focusing on the well-being of children in the custody of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Notable bills such as HB2789 and HB2809 were thoroughly reviewed, where stakeholders highlighted the critical need for improved data collection on suicide attempts among youth in foster care. The interventions proposed aim to enhance early identification and support for these vulnerable populations. The committee members engaged with professionals and advocates who emphasized the urgency of addressing these mental health challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • SSCCs enter into performance-based contracts with DFPS.
  • We have an excellent resource witness from DFPS, the Deputy Committee.
  • So, Audrey O'Neill, DFPS resource witness, neutral on the bill. Yes, ma'am.
  • Audrey O'Neill, DFPS Resource Witness, on the bill.
  • DFPS caseworkers.

Summary: The meeting focused primarily on several key bills pertaining to the accountability and operational continuity of single-source continuum contractors within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Representative Davis presented three related bills: HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, which were designed to strengthen DFPS's enforcement mechanisms, clarify contract termination timelines, and enable swift action in cases of non-compliance by services providers. Each bill was discussed in detail, highlighting their importance for ensuring services for children and families remain uninterrupted and meet quality standards. Witnesses from various stakeholders provided testimony both in support and in critique of the proposed legislation, indicating the significant impact these bills could have on service delivery across the state. A notable moment during the meeting was when the discussion surrounding HB4130 revealed concerns regarding current 60-day notice requirements for contract terminations, which were deemed insufficient. The proposed extension to 180 days is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition without service disruption. The meeting concluded with the decision to leave the bills pending further consideration, demonstrating a commitment to address the pressing issues raised by the lawmakers and community members involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, this is Vice Chair Manuel's bill we heard previously relating to reimbursing employees of DFPS
  • relating to reimbursing certain DFPS employees for certain
  • certain contract requirements regarding a contract between a single-source continuum contractor and DFPS
  • This is Representative Rose's bill that we previously heard that relates to the required reporting by DFPS
  • span marker="127" data-time="756">Members, this is a bill that relates to the required reporting by DFPS
Summary: During this meeting of the committee, key discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly those concerning contract requirements related to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Multiple bills, such as HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, were unanimously reported favorably without any debate, showcasing a clear consensus among members about their importance in regulating contracts with single-source continuum contractors. Notable attention was also directed towards HB3750, which pertains to reimbursement for legal expenses incurred by DFPS employees, demonstrating acknowledgment of the need to protect staff operating in complex legal environments. Public testimony was welcomed, allowing voices from the community to add value to the legislative dialogue. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue examining the implications of these bills as they move forward in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 14th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It promotes transparency in DFPS operations and ensures timely communication with parents.
  • DFPS is here as a resource if anybody has questions, and
  • We talked about with DFPS and Commissioner Mute that being
  • If DFPS could come forward, please. I think it's Eric.
  • The FACN is a joint project between DFPS and several health-related institutions, namely UT and Texas
Summary: The meeting of the committee featured a series of discussions primarily focusing on various bills aimed at enhancing accountability and safety in the healthcare sector. Notable highlights included the passage of HB694, which aims to promote transparency in the operations of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by shortening the notification timeline for significant events from ten days to 48 hours. This bill received unanimous support from all members present, underscoring a strong consensus on improving communication with parents and stakeholders involved in the child welfare system. Another significant topic was the introduction of HB2187, which seeks to amend and update the existing nursing staffing laws to address emerging challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was presented as a response to the increased burnout rates among nurses and aims to provide a more stable working environment to retain talent in the healthcare sector. The committee took testimony from several experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgency and importance of these legislative changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The DFPS caseworker may make one of five dispositions.
  • This creates consistency and clarity within DFPS when DFPS relies on court orders for registry inclusion
  • Sunset will review DFPS this coming interim.
  • DFPS.
  • I recognize that DFPS has a very difficult job.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ">So we really need to be thinking strategically ahead for 10 to 15 years down the road about what DFPS
  • We're headquartered in Houston, and the bulk of our operations serve the DFPS Region Area, but we're
  • Region 9 is one of the largest DFPS regions.
  • One respondent said, "DFPS has basically required the SSCC to do the same thing DFPS was doing before
  • DFPS will also be required to submit detailed reports to the court on placement attempts.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding child welfare and community-based care, focusing primarily on SB1398 and HB5396. Notably, representatives expressed concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the current system, emphasizing the need for stronger documentation and accountability measures in handling cases of children and families. Senator Davis discussed the implications of SB596, which seeks to enhance data collection regarding outcomes of cases handled by the Department of Family and Protective Services, aiming to improve service delivery and outcomes for vulnerable children. Public testimony was heard from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for collaboration and understanding throughout the legislative process, which ultimately aims to better support families and prevent the need for child removal from their homes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We heard previously that relates to the monetary assistance provided by DFPS to certain parents.
  • From DFPS, is it Audrey? Let's see.
  • So, Marta Talbert, the DFPS resource witness on the bill. Correct, yes. OK, thank you, Marta.
  • We're told, oh no, this stays all private with DFPS, and instead, apparently, it's being.
  • Not typically through DFPS.
Summary: The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) May 21st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Central Registry is a database maintained by DFPS for internal background...
  • Do we have DFPS or just HHSC? Thank you.
  • Lisa Caney with DFPS.

  • If we could, I think we have someone from DFPS come forward, please.
  • These parents do not get the letters that are sent out by DFPS.
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss a variety of bills primarily related to healthcare and early childhood education. Notably, the committee reported favorably on several bills including HB721, HB2035, and HB2038, with all receiving unanimous support of 7-0. Senator Perry played a crucial role in moving the bills forward, advocating for their inclusion on the local and uncontested calendars. Furthermore, there was significant discussion surrounding HB3940, which addresses Medicaid eligibility for newborns, emphasizing the necessity for automatic enrollment to avoid gaps in coverage for infants during critical early stages of development. The meeting was characterized by the committee's cohesive efforts to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of healthcare services for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At DFPS to create different licensing rules for relative
  • Audrey O'Neill with DFPS. The front door to DFPS, all things DFPS, is statewide intake.
  • DFPS does provide some post-adopt services.
  • DFPS collaborates with a lot around adoption, is also offering now...
  • So, our average age of removal at DFPS is four.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around the presentation of Senate Bill 593, which focuses on reforming licensing requirements for kinship and foster care homes. Significant discussions revolved around the proposed changes to reduce duplicative regulations aimed at helping kinship families qualify for foster care payments. Members emphasized that the reforms would ensure that health and safety standards remain paramount while streamlining processes for providers. Various stakeholders expressed optimism that these changes would eliminate barriers and improve the system for both kinship caregivers and the children they support. Public comment on the new rules is anticipated in May 2025, with the new regulations set to take effect in October 2025. The chair and committee members expressed gratitude towards the agencies involved for their contributions during the review process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 20th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I got the current stats from DFPS, and children have an average of 3.9 placements per child while they're
  • And it's also my understanding that DFPS won't place children
  • data-time="828">But anyway, as I said, in my experience DFPS
  • So right now there's a year deadline on DFPS cases.
  • I'm told by DFPS caseworkers, so if that's not correct, then I guess they're not telling me the truth
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around discussions of several key bills, primarily focused on enhancing protective measures and improving the welfare of children under state care. Notably, SB596 was reported favorably for the full House, addressing critical gaps in the reporting of placements of children. Similarly, SB1524 was discussed, presenting a substitute that contained amendments related to confidentiality surrounding firearms in foster homes. The committee also reviewed SB2311, aimed at improving educational planning requirements for residential treatment centers through written agreements with local schools to ensure stable educational environments for children.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, is there anyone here from DFPS? I don’t...
  • O'Neill with DFPS on the bill. Great, super.
  • The angle of getting the data from DFPS is interesting.
  • DFPS receives all of these reports.
  • So all of that information is already accessible to DFPS.
Summary: The meeting involved focused discussions on several key bills aimed at improving mental health services and regulatory practices within the state. Notably, Senator Sparks introduced SB2446, which aims to enhance transparency in Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) by requiring detailed expenditure reports and reducing the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in decision-making processes. The bill drew mixed reactions, with some members emphasizing the need for more oversight while others raised concerns about potential negative impacts on recruitment and service delivery for vulnerable populations. Public testimony highlighted differing perspectives, underscoring the complexity of mental health policies and their implementation constraints.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 28th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • DFPS case? Yeah.
  • ...DFPS process.
  • custody of DFPS running away.
  • To answer the question, DFPS has a children and youth missing from DFPS conservatorship and human rights
  • Well, we don't want DFPS to be able to extend the case. You don't want...
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Fiduciary Relationships Committee involved extensive discussions focused on improvements in family law, particularly regarding child welfare and representation in court. Several bills were presented, including HB3382, which aims to enhance the standard of representation for children and parents in legal proceedings. Testimony highlighted concerns over attorney performance and the necessity of timely communication between attorneys and their young clients. Members voiced both support and opposition, especially regarding the timelines set forth for attorney consultations prior to hearings, reflecting a strong concern for the welfare of children involved in custody and welfare cases.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Monetary assistance from DFPS.
  • I asked DFPS this question. Members, any other questions?
  • There is a contract between the SSCC and DFPS.
  • is DFPS.
  • She went through her two DFPS appeals that I mentioned.
Summary: The committee meeting encompassed a comprehensive discussion regarding various legislative matters, including the critical examination of HB741, HB341, HB582, and HB471. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented HB741, aimed at enhancing financial support for relative caregivers, ensuring an alignment in assistance with licensed foster parents to foster kinship placements. This initiative was met with supportive testimonies from several stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of keeping children connected with their families for stability. Furthermore, representatives voiced differing views on the proposed regulations in HB341 and HB582, leading to a vibrant debate where several public members provided insight into practical implications and potential consequences of the bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human ServicesAudio only. May 5th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • A committee substitute to House Bill 140 applies confidentiality rules to the committee to allow DFPS
  • The sub makes clear that DFPS staff who serve on the committee
  • Additionally, the committee substitute also repeals the current DFPS Services Council, which has a similar
  • advisory duty and was reconstituted when DFPS was removed from HHSC.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding several bills pertaining to health services and child protection. Notably, House Bill 109, aimed at establishing therapeutic residential treatment placements for children, was presented along with a committee substitute that included a provision for pass-through grants to build mental health facilities. The bill passed unanimously and was recommended for the local and contested calendar without any objections. Furthermore, House Bill 140 saw significant amendments to sharpen its focus on child protective services, receiving unanimous support as well.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • DFPS will get involved in that case later on.
  • This issue is a mandatory timeline for disclosures for DFPS attorneys.
  • DFPS cases run on a very tight schedule.
  • but DFPS in every case begins with a petition to terminate
  • I have handled DFPS cases, except for the year or so I was at the Attorney General's office.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of legislative bills centered around child welfare and family rights. Notably, House Bill 4870, presented by Representative Aisha Davis, aimed at supporting kinship caregivers by creating a grant program to alleviate the high legal fees for obtaining custody authority. The bill received strong support from testimony highlighting the importance of kinship care in keeping families together and reducing the costs associated with foster care. The witnesses included representatives from various legal aid organizations, all emphasizing the significant financial savings and emotional benefits of formalizing kinship arrangements. Additionally, discussions surrounding HB3758 focused on ensuring due process for parents in child protective services cases, stressing the need for legal protections during therapy and treatment. Observers noted the passionate debates around parental rights and child welfare, underscoring the delicate balance legislators seek to maintain.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...issues, and you contact DFPS as an elected official.
  • ...tie the hands of DFPS when there is a serious issue on
  • That's what was kind of happening at DFPS with PEI.
  • the tools in the toolbox for DFPS to manage CBC providers.
  • And then DFPS reviews it themselves.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services addressed several significant pieces of legislation focused primarily on health and welfare issues in Texas. One of the central topics was SB1233, which aims to provide perinatal palliative care information to families receiving diagnoses of life-threatening conditions. Testimonies highlighted the importance of immediate access to support resources, as speakers shared personal experiences illustrating the emotional and medical implications of these diagnoses. Additionally, SB1368 was discussed, focusing on emergency preparedness within assisted living and nursing facilities, emphasizing the need for actionable contingency plans to protect vulnerable residents during power outages and emergencies. The committee explored how to ensure compliance with new standards while considering the realities faced by these facilities, especially in determining the appropriate levels of emergency power backup requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • amend language in the Texas Family Code allowing the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS
  • Contractors (SSCCs) are the local child welfare entities that enter performance-based contracts with DFPS
  • management for children and families who have been referred for services following an investigation by DFPS
  • This adds to the DFPS toolbox to assume case management

  • Contractor in DFPS, that was Representative Davis' bill.
Summary: During the committee meeting, several bills focused on enhancing safety and welfare legislation were discussed. Notably, House Bill 3195 received poignant commentary, as it aims to improve communication and safety measures in senior living communities following tragic incidents. Representative Garcia-Hernandez highlighted the need for mandatory background checks for employees at these facilities, emphasizing the bill’s importance in preventing avoidable tragedies. The bill garnered strong support from witnesses, including family members of victims who shared their personal stories of loss and the importance of safeguarding seniors. Additionally, House Bill 5223 was discussed, aiming to implement standardized emergency response protocols in daycare facilities, ensuring that children are adequately protected during emergencies. This bill also received testimonies underscoring the critical need for regular safety audits in these establishments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 20th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Government code, DFPS has limited enforcement authority for
  • Currently, DFPS uses methods of technical assistance,

  • The Quad Agency comprises TWC, HHSC, DFPS, and TEA, and is
  • Forcing a long wait time will inevitably cost the state and DFPS more, and the cost could potentially
  • She has adopted a child from DFPS and from that system.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services discussed multiple bills focused on diverse health issues including maternal care, organ transplant eligibility, and child welfare regulations. Notably, HB215, presented by Senator Perry, received attention for its provisions on requiring itemized bills from healthcare providers to enhance transparency. The bill garnered support from various witnesses who emphasized the importance of clearer billing processes for patients. Another significant discussion point was HB4076, which aimed to prevent discrimination against individuals seeking organ transplants based on vaccination status. This bill sparked public testimony highlighting the ethical implications of such mandates on vulnerable patients, especially children. Overall, the committee's deliberations emphasized a commitment to improving health care transparency and patient rights in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article II Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article II

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="40" data-time="234">This is very concerning for services that everyday Texans need, specifically DFPS
  • data-time="360"> To provide testimony today on Article 2 of House Bill 1 as filed, particularly the DFPS
  • We'd ask you to direct DFPS to fund community-based care providers to maintain their caseloads.
  • To direct DFPS and the community-based care providers

  • here to talk to you today about family preservation services and Article 2 of the Texas budget at DFPS
Summary: The meeting of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article 2 featured public testimony focused on the budget and specific funding needs within various state agencies. A significant amount of discussion centered around tobacco control efforts, where multiple witnesses emphasized the need for increased funding to combat tobacco and vaping among youth. Zoe Pippin, a high school student, shared personal experiences of how vaping has impacted her peers, advocating for more educational and prevention resources to address the addiction issues in her small community. This sentiment resonated with many committee members, prompting them to consider expanding support for tobacco prevention programs.

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