Texas House Bill HB1249

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/10/11
• Refer: 3/1/11

Caption

Relating to certain reports, communications, and publications involving the attorney general.

Impact

If enacted, HB1249 would directly affect several existing laws, particularly within the Health and Safety Code and the Family Code. The bill modifies how the attorney general and relevant departments report their activities and outcomes, thus making it necessary for these agencies to collect and present data annually. This change is expected to enhance oversight and promote actionable insights that can be used to improve service delivery in areas such as child support and assisted living regulations. Importantly, the updates would reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and foster a more accountable governmental approach.

Summary

House Bill 1249 is a legislative proposal that seeks to amend various reporting structures related to the operations of the Texas attorney general and state departments. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability by mandating comprehensive annual and biennial reports regarding the attorney general's administrative responsibilities and the effectiveness of the Title IV-D agency's child support enforcement. The aim is to create more streamlined reporting mechanisms that benefit both lawmakers and the public in understanding the administration of these crucial services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1249 appears generally positive among legislators, particularly among those interested in efficiency and accountability in state governance. Proponents advocate that the bill signifies a proactive approach toward legislative responsibility and public transparency, essential factors in building trust in state institutions. However, there are concerns regarding the potential burden this increased reporting may place on agency resources. Critics argue that while transparency is vital, it should not come at the expense of operational effectiveness.

Contention

A notable area of contention revolves around the balance between necessary oversight and agency operational capacity. Some stakeholders worry that increased reporting requirements might distract from the actual mission of these departments, leading to an environment where the pursuit of compliance overshadow the delivery of services to constituents. Additionally, the decision to repeal certain provisions related to the operations of the attorney general and local entities could raise questions regarding the continuity of oversight and protection mechanisms previously in place.