Texas House Bill HB3401

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to nutrition and wellness education for certain recipients of certain state benefits.

Impact

The implementation of HB3401 is expected to influence state welfare programs by integrating wellness education into existing support systems for beneficiaries. By focusing on promoting healthier habits among those receiving assistance, the bill seeks to potentially reduce health-related issues and improve overall quality of life. The initiative emphasizes preventive health measures which align with broader public health goals within the state.

Summary

House Bill 3401 aims to enhance nutrition and wellness education for individuals receiving certain state benefits, including financial assistance, medical assistance, and supplemental nutrition assistance. The bill mandates the commission to collaborate with community-based organizations in promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging access to existing online educational resources. This initiative is designed to better inform recipients about available nutritional information and wellness programs to improve their lifestyle choices.

Contention

One notable point of deliberation surrounding HB3401 was the funding and resources necessary to effectively execute the educational components of the bill. Critics raised concerns regarding whether the current infrastructure is sufficient to sustain an effective outreach and education program. The bill stipulates a report to the legislature on the effectiveness and usage of the educational resources by early 2015, setting a precedent for accountability and assessment of its impact on the community.