Texas House Bill HB1779

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/24/11
• Out of House Committee: 3/30/11
• Voted on by House: 4/8/11
• Refer: 3/3/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 3/29/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/17/11
• Engrossed: 4/8/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/9/11
• Enrolled: 5/18/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to an exemption from private security regulation for social workers engaged in the practice of social work.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly affect the way social workers operate in Texas by alleviating them from the regulatory strictures typically imposed on private security personnel. This adjustment would promote a more conducive environment for social work practices, allowing professionals to focus on providing essential services to their clients. This could lead to an increased accessibility of social services, benefiting communities particularly in underserved areas. Moreover, it sets a clear distinction between the roles of social workers and security personnel, underlining the unique nature of social work responsibilities.

Summary

House Bill 1779 proposes an exemption from private security regulations for licensed social workers who are engaged in the practice of social work. By modifying Section 1702.324 of the Occupations Code, the bill allows social workers to perform their duties without falling under the stringent regulations applicable to private security agencies. The intention behind this legislation is to ensure that social workers can assist their clients without the added burden of security licensing requirements, which may not relate directly to the nature of their work.

Contention

There may be some concerns regarding the potential implications of exempting social workers from private security regulations. Critics might argue that this exemption could lead to a lack of oversight in situations where social workers are required to maintain safe environments for vulnerable populations. Questions about safeguarding measures and accountability may arise, particularly when social workers intervene in high-risk scenarios. However, proponents of the bill emphasize that social work, by its nature, requires a compassionate and supportive approach rather than a regulatory framework appropriate for security services.