Texas Senate Bill SB728

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the notification of certain legislators of the death of a child in foster care.

Impact

The proposed amendment to the Family Code signifies an important step in increasing legislative oversight in matters concerning foster care and child welfare. By mandating this notification, SB728 aims to create greater accountability on the part of the child welfare system towards elected officials and the public. This bill could lead to more informed policymakers who might advocate for necessary changes or improvements in the foster care system, particularly in response to fatalities. Having legislators informed about child deaths can facilitate discussions surrounding the adequacy of care and prompt legislative action if needed.

Summary

Senate Bill 728, titled 'Relating to the notification of certain legislators of the death of a child in foster care,' seeks to amend the Texas Family Code by requiring the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to notify state legislators within 48 hours of the death of a child who was in foster care. This notification would be directed to the state senator and state representative representing both the district where the child resided and the district where a parent of the child resides. The primary purpose is to ensure that local elected officials are informed promptly about such tragic events, potentially allowing them to engage in oversight and contribute to discussions on child welfare policies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB728 appears to be largely supportive among legislators who see the necessity of keeping local representatives informed about incidents related to foster children. Many believe that timely communication will help bolster legislative attention to child welfare issues. However, there may also be concerns regarding how this notification process is operationalized and whether it effectively serves its intended purpose without inadvertently causing emotional distress among legislators or families of the affected children.

Contention

While the bill itself doesn't seem to present substantial points of contention, it may raise questions about the practicality of implementation. Some legislators may question the efficiency and effectiveness of the 48-hour notification time frame, considering the complexities involved in verifying such sensitive information. Moreover, there might be concerns about the potential for legislative overreach or the implications of such notifications on grieving families and their privacy rights. Overall, while the intentions behind SB728 are commendable, the execution will need careful consideration.