Texas House Bill HB1063

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to state assistance to certain counties for indigent burial costs.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1063 is expected to enhance support for counties dealing with high rates of indigent burials, thereby promoting public health and welfare. The bill stipulates that the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission will adopt rules that govern application procedures and eligibility requirements for the state assistance program. This structured approach aims to ensure that assistance is disbursed effectively and promptly, with an expected decision on applications within 90 days, which could significantly streamline the process for counties in need.

Summary

House Bill 1063 aims to provide state assistance to certain counties in Texas for covering the costs associated with the burial of deceased individuals who are classified as paupers. This bill specifically targets counties that are adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and an international border, recognizing the unique challenges faced by these regions. By creating a structured funding mechanism through the Department of State Health Services, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on local governments when it comes to providing dignified burial services for their indigent residents.

Contention

While the bill is designed to address a pressing need, there could be points of contention surrounding its funding and implementation. For instance, questions may arise regarding the sources of state funding for this initiative, especially in the context of budget constraints. Additionally, there could be debates around which counties qualify for assistance based on proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and international borders, leading to potential disparities in resource allocation for counties that do not meet these criteria.