Texas House Bill HB1317

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the protection and care of individuals with mental retardation.

Impact

The implications of HB 1317 are substantial, as it strengthens mechanisms for the oversight of state developmental centers. It mandates that these facilities conduct regular surveys and investigations into allegations of abuse or neglect. Furthermore, it provides clear guidelines on the process of commitment to these facilities, ensuring that only individuals who meet stringent criteria related to their mental conditions are placed there. This is expected to enhance the quality of care and the protection of residents while also augmenting state accountability in handling such sensitive matters.

Summary

House Bill 1317 addresses the protection and care of individuals with mental retardation by amending various statutes related to service provisions and investigative protocols. Among the significant changes is the establishment of a state developmental center for alleged offenders, aimed at providing specialized care and separation from non-offenders. The bill underscores the commitment to safeguarding residents and ensuring that abuse, neglect, and exploitation cases are promptly reported and investigated by appropriate state agencies.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB 1317 revealed notable concerns, particularly about the balance between safeguarding residents' rights and ensuring public safety. Critics have raised issues regarding the sufficiency of measures for monitoring facilities and whether the changes adequately protect residents from potential abuses while addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to enhance oversight and improve care standards in developmental centers, emphasizing the importance of a structured approach in dealing with sensitive cases involving individuals with mental retardation.