Relating to the appointment of members of the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee, and the authority of the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee to direct the allocation of legislative appropriations for the purpose of providing health care to the persons confined by the department.
Impact
The proposed changes may significantly affect how health care is administered within Texas prisons and jails. By allowing for more public members and establishing direct contracts with educational institutions like The University of Texas Medical Branch, the bill positions the committee to facilitate a more integrated approach to managed health care. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity for transparency and accountability regarding the expenditure of legislative appropriations related to inmate health care, an area that has seen scrutiny in the past.
Summary
House Bill 3379 seeks to amend the Texas Government Code, specifically to overhaul the composition and authority of the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee. This bill increases the number of public members from three to six, with provisions ensuring that at least three of these members are licensed medical practitioners. The primary intent is to enhance the governance of health care services provided to individuals confined within the state's correctional facilities, thus aiming for better oversight and quality of care.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB3379 appears to be positive, with stakeholders likely viewing it as an important step towards reforming health care within the correctional system. Supporters advocate for increased medical expertise in the decision-making process through more qualified committee members. However, concerns could arise regarding the implementation and funding of the proposed changes, especially from groups worried about potential budget constraints impacting health care delivery.
Contention
While the overarching goals of HB3379 are to improve health care access and quality for confined individuals, there may be contentious points regarding the allocation of funds and resources. Some lawmakers may express concern about expanding committee authority without sufficient checks and balances or worry that additional oversight could complicate bureaucratic processes. The balance between cost management and high-quality care is expected to be a focal point of debate as the bill moves forward.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.