Texas House Bill HB2631

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to hazardous duty pay for certain employees working at state supported living centers and state hospitals.

Impact

If enacted, HB2631 would significantly impact the compensation structure for a defined group of state employees. By extending hazardous duty pay to employees working at state supported living centers and hospitals, the bill would contribute to enhanced fiscal security for those in challenging roles. This change acknowledges the specialized challenges faced by these employees and provides them with an incentive that aligns with the hazardous nature of their responsibilities.

Summary

House Bill 2631 seeks to amend the definition of 'state employee' within the Government Code to include employees of state supported living centers and state hospitals who are in direct contact with patients more than 50 percent of their working time. This inclusion aims to ensure that these employees receive hazardous duty pay, recognizing the potentially risky nature of their work environment when dealing directly with vulnerable populations. The bill intends to better reflect the realities of employee responsibilities in these settings and to provide additional financial support to those who carry out these critical functions.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB2631 may center on concerns about budgetary implications, as expanding hazardous duty pay could elevate overall state expenditure on employee salaries. Opponents might argue that while recognizing and compensating risky work is necessary, the financial impact on the state budget could lead to competing funding needs elsewhere within public services. Proponents, however, would likely emphasize the importance of investing in healthcare and safety personnel who are essential to the state's support systems for individuals with disabilities or mental health issues.