H.B. No. 908
AN ACT
relating to the assessment of an elderly or disabled person's
psychological status for purposes of an emergency order authorizing
protective services.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 48.208(c-3), Human Resources Code, is
amended to read as follows:
(c-3) An assessment of the elderly or disabled person's
psychological status must be performed by a licensed professional
counselor, licensed psychologist, or master social worker who has
training and expertise in issues related to abuse, neglect, and
exploitation. The person performing the assessment shall sign a
report stating:
(1) that the elderly or disabled person is reported to
be suffering from abuse, neglect, or exploitation, which may
present a threat to the person's life or physical safety; and
(2) that in the professional opinion of the licensed
professional counselor, licensed psychologist, or master social
worker, as applicable, the issuance of an emergency order
authorizing protective services without the elderly or disabled
person's consent is necessary under the circumstances.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2013.
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I certify that H.B. No. 908 was passed by the House on April
18, 2013, by the following vote: Yeas 143, Nays 0, 2 present, not
voting.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
I certify that H.B. No. 908 was passed by the Senate on May
20, 2013, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
APPROVED: _____________________
Date
_____________________
Governor