Texas Senate Bill SB1327

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/16/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09

Caption

Relating to the disposition of surplus data processing equipment of a university system or an institution or agency of higher education.

Impact

The enactment of SB1327 is expected to significantly impact state laws regarding the disposition of surplus property, specifically in the context of data processing equipment. Universities and higher education institutions will gain a clearer and more beneficial pathway to repurpose outdated or surplus technological assets, allowing them to contribute positively to rural healthcare infrastructure. By enabling these donations, the bill aims to bridge the technological divide often seen between urban and rural healthcare facilities.

Summary

SB1327 is a bill that amends the Government Code to allow university systems or institutions and agencies of higher education in Texas to donate surplus data processing equipment directly to public or private hospitals that are located in rural counties. This provision aims to facilitate the transfer of useful technology to hospitals that may have limited budgets for such resources, thereby improving their operational capacities and healthcare delivery services.

Contention

While the bill seems to promote a positive initiative by fostering collaboration between academic institutions and healthcare providers, there could be discussions around the efficacy and feasibility of this measure. Concerns may arise about the criteria for determining what constitutes 'surplus' equipment, as well as the accountability measures in place to ensure that donations serve the intended purpose. Additionally, there may be ongoing debates regarding the definitions involved, particularly around what qualifies as a rural county and the scope of acceptable equipment for donation.