Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4154

Filed

Out of House Committee

4/27/09

Voted on by House

5/6/09

Out of Senate Committee

5/13/09

Voted on by Senate

5/21/09

Governor Action

6/19/09

Bill Becomes Law

Enrolled

5/25/09

Passed

6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the creation by the Health and Human Services Commission of a volunteer advocate program for certain elderly individuals.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4154 would amend existing laws under the Human Resources Code and the Texas Probate Code to incorporate the volunteer advocate program. The bill stipulates that the Health and Human Services Commission may engage with nonprofit organizations to facilitate the program, which would enable those organizations to recruit, train, and supervise the volunteer advocates. This collaborative approach emphasizes the importance of community involvement in supporting the elderly.

Summary

House Bill 4154 seeks to establish a volunteer advocate program aimed at assisting elderly individuals aged 65 and older who are involved in guardianship proceedings or emergency protective services. This initiative is designed to ensure that elderly persons have support during legal proceedings that can significantly impact their wellbeing and rights. The bill includes provisions for trained volunteers to serve as advocates, thereby enhancing the protective measures available to this vulnerable population.

Contention

The discussions surrounding the implementation of HB 4154 could raise points of contention regarding the adequacy of resources and training for volunteers. Proponents of the bill may argue that this program creates essential oversight for elderly individuals in legal matters, while critics could express concerns about the potential for uneven quality of advocacy or the effectiveness of volunteer advocates in sensitive situations. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the carrying out of the program, the selection of nonprofit partners, and the appropriateness of funding sources for its activities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB472

Relating to the creation of the office of health equity within the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB1677

Relating to the establishment and administration of Health and Human Services Commission programs providing mental health services to certain individuals in this state.

TX HB474

Relating to certain requirements regarding court-appointed volunteer advocate programs.

TX HB4049

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB1192

Relating to access to criminal history record information for certain employees, volunteers, and contractors, and for applicants for those positions, by the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB1780

Relating to the creation by the Texas Workforce Commission of a program to assist with transitioning certain workers to clean energy jobs.

TX SB2315

Relating to the creation of a task force to develop a plan for the consolidation of the functions of workforce development programs administered by the Texas Workforce Commission and social services programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

Similar Bills

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NJ A3284

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NJ A463

Establishing Advisory Committee on Family Services and Communications in Division of Developmental Disabilities in DHS.

NJ S3754

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NJ A5638

Establishes "Disability Mortality and Abuse Prevention Advisory Committee" in DHS; makes appropriation.

PA SB609

In optional affordable housing funding, further providing for affordable housing programs fee in counties and providing for reporting requirements and for Pennsylvania Affordable Housing Advisory Committee; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

PA SB543

In optional affordable housing funding, further providing for affordable housing programs fee in counties, providing for reporting requirements and for Pennsylvania Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

TX HB1541

Relating to the establishment of an advisory committee to study and make recommendations on services provided to individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability.