Relating to the creation of the State Supported Living Center Realignment Commission.
Impact
The impact of HB 3528 on state laws includes establishing a formal framework for evaluating and potentially restructuring state supported living centers. The bill introduces administrative support through the Health and Human Services Commission while granting the realignment commission independence in its directives. This legislative move could shift service delivery towards community-based alternatives, leading to policy changes that affect the availability and structure of services provided to individuals with disabilities.
Summary
House Bill 3528 proposes the creation of the State Supported Living Center Realignment Commission in Texas. This new commission is tasked with evaluating the operation and management of state supported living centers, with an emphasis on identifying potential consolidations or closures to optimize community services for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The bill highlights the need for ongoing assessments of these facilities and aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate care, possibly in community settings rather than centralized institutions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding this bill appears to be cautiously optimistic, as it aligns with broader trends towards deinstitutionalization and community-based care models. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step in enhancing care and adapting to modern needs, while critics may raise concerns over the adequacy of community services to support those transitioning from state centers. The conversations around the bill indicate a desire for systematic improvements in how services are delivered to some of society's most vulnerable populations.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential implications for current residents of state supported living centers if closures or consolidations are recommended. The bill includes a moratorium on admissions to facilities marked for downsizing, which could lead to worries about service disruptions and the adequacy of new community services developed as a result. Moreover, the need for consistent and reliable funding for these community resources is a concern among advocates who fear that the shift may not yield the necessary support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Relating to peer support specialists for individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability and peer services for those individuals under Medicaid living outside of state supported living centers.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.