Texas Senate Bill SB785

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/15/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/20/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/19/09

Caption

Relating to the employee misconduct registry and employee certification posting requirements for certain facilities.

Impact

The implementation of SB785 would strengthen existing state laws regarding the accountability of employees working in vulnerable settings, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The bill mandates that facilities conspicuously display information about complaint procedures, inspection reports, and safeguards against discrimination for those reporting misconduct. This will allow residents and their families a clearer understanding of their rights and the mechanisms in place to address any grievances related to employee conduct, thereby fostering a culture of safety and trust in care facilities.

Summary

SB785 addresses the establishment and maintenance of an employee misconduct registry designed for individuals employed in facilities regulated by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. The bill outlines definitions crucial to understanding reportable conduct, which includes various forms of abuse or neglect directed at residents or consumers of care facilities. The proposed amendments aim to enhance the tracking and reporting of employee misconduct, thereby improving safety and accountability within these care facilities. The legislation requires that any reported misconduct be promptly investigated and documented to ensure transparency about employee conduct in these environments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB785 include the balance between proper oversight of employee misconduct and the potential implications for employee privacy and employment prospects. While advocates of the bill argue that such a registry is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations from abuse, critics may raise concerns about the consequences of being listed in the registry, particularly if the findings have yet to be confirmed in an investigation. As such, ensuring a fair process for employees who are accused of misconduct will be critical in managing both accountability and the rights of healthcare workers.