Relating to a study on alcohol and controlled substance statistics prepared by the Department of Family and Protective Services and the Department of State Health Services.
Impact
The bill, if implemented, could significantly enhance the state's ability to track and respond to child welfare issues stemming from substance abuse. By requiring the collection of detailed statistics, agencies can better understand the prevalence of substance-related cases among children, potentially informing future policy decisions and funding allocations aimed at prevention and intervention. Furthermore, the results of this study could provide crucial insights for lawmakers and service providers involved in child protection and health services, leading to more effective programs and resources for affected families.
Summary
House Bill 1396 addresses the issue of substance abuse among children by mandating a study on alcohol and controlled substance statistics conducted by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) in Texas. The bill requires these agencies to assess their current data collection on instances where children at birth tested positive for substances, the type of controlled substances involved, and the related medical conditions resulting from substance exposure. This initiative aims to improve the understanding of substance abuse impacts on children and ensure accurate data collection across state agencies.
Contention
Potential points of contention include concerns over privacy and the implications of tracking substance abuse statistics among children. Critics may argue that increased data collection could lead to unintended consequences for families, such as stigmatization or overreach by protective services. Furthermore, ensuring the accurate and effective compilation of these statistics at the lowest possible cost may raise debates about resource allocation within state agencies. The necessity of the study might also be contested, as some may question whether existing efforts suffice to address substance abuse issues in the community.
Next_steps
Following its passage, the bill mandates that the study's findings be submitted electronically to key figures in Texas government, including the governor and legislative leaders, by November 1, 2014. This timeline underscores the urgency the legislature places on understanding and addressing substance abuse amongst children, while also emphasizing accountability by requiring timely reporting of the study's outcomes.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services' annual report of key performance measures and data elements for child protection; authorizing a penalty.
Relating to required reporting by the Department of Family and Protective Services regarding youth in the managing conservatorship of the department who attempt suicide.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship, investigations by the Department of Family and Protective Services, and parental child safety placements.