Texas House Bill HB2401

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to supplemental pay for certain employees of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The introduction of this bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws related to employee compensation within state agencies. It aims to enhance the ability of the DFPS to serve Texas' diverse population by encouraging employees to acquire and demonstrate foreign language skills. This change may not only improve service delivery but also incentivize employees to develop skills that are critical for effective communication with clients from various linguistic backgrounds. The financial recognition of language proficiency could also help attract and retain qualified staff in these crucial areas of public service.

Summary

House Bill 2401 proposes a new provision for employees of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in Texas, specifically aimed at providing supplemental pay for employees who demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language. This bill amends the Human Resources Code by adding a section that ensures employees who are proficient in both English and a second language can receive a salary supplement not exceeding 6.8% of their base salary. The bill recognizes the necessity of language proficiency in serving diverse clients effectively, especially in departments dealing with sensitive services like child protective services and adult protective services.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, it may face differing opinions regarding budget allocations and the subjective nature of determining language proficiency. Some lawmakers might express concerns about the potential costs related to implementing foreign language proficiency programs, including testing and training for employees. Furthermore, the legitimacy and fairness of proficiency assessments could be debated, particularly on ensuring that these assessments are accessible and equitable for all employees within the DFPS. The balance between rewarding language proficiency and managing state resources effectively will likely be a topic of consideration during discussions.