TX
Texas Senate Bill SB205

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB205

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the functions of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services.

Impact

The proposed changes are meant to influence state legislation around disability services significantly. Specifically, SB205 requires the integration of independent living services programs, which encompasses services for individuals with visual impairments and other significant disabilities. The integration aims to consolidate these services under a unified framework, thereby increasing the efficacy of individualized support and ensuring compliance with federal standards. Furthermore, the bill introduces rules for comprehensive rehabilitation services, particularly targeting those with traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, which reflects a broader commitment to specialized care.

Summary

Senate Bill 205 (SB205) focuses on the functions of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services in Texas, specifically aimed at enhancing the provision of assistance to individuals with disabilities. The bill aims to streamline and improve services by establishing guidelines, integrating existing programs, and mandating performance monitoring systems for caseworkers. By codifying these reforms, SB205 places a stronger emphasis on standardized quality across services while ensuring that independent living programs are effectively managed and integrated.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB205 is the level of authority it grants to the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services regarding direct service provision. Critics may argue that while the bill seeks to streamline services, it could inadvertently limit the flexibility of caseworkers who may need to tailor services based on individual cases. Proponents, however, contend that the establishment of uniform guidelines and monitoring mechanisms is essential for improving outcomes and ensuring accountability. As such, the debate will focus on how best to balance standardization with the need for personalized care in the disability services sector.

Companion Bills

TX HB2463

Identical Relating to the continuation of the functions of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services and certain other functions.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2223

Relating to establishing pilot program to offer assistance for older adults diagnosed with severe vision loss.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX SB1727

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.

TX SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB272

Relating to the terminology used to refer to certain disabilities and to an individualized education team for purposes of determining a student's eligibility for special education services and providing those services in public schools.

TX HB4049

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4356

Relating to the dissolution of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the creation of the Office of Youth Safety and Rehabilitation.

TX HB1369

Relating to a student's eligibility for special education services provided by a school district, including services for dyslexia and related disorders.

Similar Bills

TX HB2463

Relating to the continuation of the functions of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services and certain other functions.

MI SB0932

Human services: services or financial assistance; family self-sufficiency plan; modify. Amends secs. 57e, 57g, 57p & 57r of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.57e et seq.).

TX HB4691

Relating to the protection and care of individuals requiring long term care services and supports.

TX HB1317

Relating to the protection and care of individuals with mental retardation.

CT SB01071

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Auditors Of Public Accounts.

AR HB1295

To Make Technical Corrections To The Arkansas Code Concerning Arkansas Rehabilitation Services.

TX SB1569

Relating to the availability of certain personal information of a member of the governing board of an institution of higher education, the chief executive officer of the institution, or the chief executive officer of a university system.