Texas Senate Bill SB1723

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/5/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/8/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/20/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to an informational manual for voluntary caregivers who provide temporary care for children who are the subject of an investigation by the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The implementation of SB1723 would directly affect laws related to caregiving and family interventions, providing clarity and guidance for voluntary caregivers. This change is designed to promote better practices among individuals stepping in to provide care during sensitive times, ensuring that they are adequately informed of their roles. The bilingual nature of the manual, which will include information in both English and Spanish, aims to make the resources accessible to a broader demographic of caregivers, thereby improving the overall support for families in crisis situations.

Summary

SB1723 aims to amend the Family Code of Texas by requiring the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to develop and publish an informational manual for voluntary caregivers. A voluntary caregiver is defined as a person who temporarily cares for a child during an investigation by the DFPS, but who is not under the conservatorship of the department. The manual is intended to provide necessary information to these caregivers, addressing both their rights and responsibilities while caring for the child. This initiative seeks to enhance support structures for children involved in family-related investigations.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on the need for informational resources, certain points of contention may arise regarding the extent of the information included in the manual and how it aligns with existing caregiver programs. Critics may argue about the sufficiency of the guidelines provided, especially concerning the rights of voluntary caregivers versus the protective measures for children. Additionally, ensuring that these manuals are not only comprehensive but also easily understandable could be a focal point for debate, considering the diverse backgrounds of potential caregivers.