Texas House Bill HB492

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/14/09
• Voted on by House: 4/27/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/8/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/14/09
• Governor Action: 5/30/09
• Report Pass: 5/8/09
• Enrolled: 5/20/09
• Passed: 5/30/09

Caption

Relating to the expansion of faith- and community-based health and human services and social services initiatives.

Impact

If enacted, HB492 would require the establishment of a system for volunteer opportunities related to these initiatives, creating a searchable database that the state would manage. This database aims to promote volunteer engagement by connecting potential volunteers with local community and faith-based organizations, thus fostering a spirit of community service across Texas. The collaboration would also seek to empower local organizations, helping them build their capacity to deliver effective services.

Summary

House Bill 492 aims to expand faith- and community-based health and human services initiatives, reflecting the legislative intent to strengthen partnerships between these organizations and the state government. The bill establishes a framework for a comprehensive approach to enhancing charitable and social service delivery through the designation of liaisons within state agencies. These liaisons would facilitate collaboration and support for community organizations in navigating state services and resources.

Contention

The bill faces potential debates surrounding the implications of intertwining faith-based initiatives with state social services. Critics may express concerns about maintaining a separation between government and religion, even as the text of the bill explicitly states that it does not endorse any religious beliefs or practices. Moreover, stakeholders may question how the bill's implementation will ensure equitable access to services without favoring specific religious organizations over secular ones.