Texas House Bill HB2558

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/26/09
• Voted on by House: 4/3/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/18/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/20/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to registration for evacuation and disaster preparedness for clients of home and community support services agencies.

Note

The discussion may also highlight varying perspectives on disaster preparedness, with some stakeholders emphasizing the need for more robust safety nets for vulnerable populations, while others may raise issues regarding the private and public resource allocation necessary for the bill's implementation.

Impact

If enacted, HB2558 will amend Section 142 of the Health and Safety Code, specifically by adding a new section that mandates home and community support services agencies to not only assist clients with registration for disaster evacuation help through the Texas Information and Referral Network, but also to provide counseling regarding general disaster preparedness. This signifies a proactive approach to emergency management and could lead to more comprehensive support structures for individuals who rely on these services.

Summary

House Bill 2558 addresses the need for better disaster preparedness by requiring home and community support services agencies to assist clients in registering for evacuation assistance. This bill aims to help ensure that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with disabilities, receive the necessary assistance during emergencies. The proposed legislation emphasizes the importance of preparing these clients for potential disasters, thereby enhancing their safety and response capabilities in such situations.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB2558 could include concerns about funding and the resources required for these agencies to implement the new responsibilities effectively. Legislators may debate the logistics of how agencies will counsel clients adequately and assist with registrations, especially if they encounter staff shortages or budget limitations. Furthermore, discussions may focus on the adequacy of 2-1-1 services and whether they can handle increased demand as a result of this bill.