Texas House Bill HB4040

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a pilot program for the establishment of a call center to assist victims of sexual assault.

Impact

The bill intends to significantly improve the response system for victims of sexual assault in Texas. By coordinating with other state and local governmental bodies, the call center aims to streamline the provision of assistance and create a more supportive environment for those affected by sexual violence. The confidentiality of the information shared with the call center is highlighted, as any identifying details regarding victims are not considered public information. This provision hopes to build trust among potential users of the service, encouraging them to seek help without fear of exposure.

Summary

House Bill 4040 establishes a pilot program for the creation of a statewide call center designed to assist victims of sexual assault. This initiative is aimed at enhancing support for survivors by providing them with a centralized resource where they can obtain essential information and access various external resources. The call center is proposed to operate a 24-hour toll-free hotline available in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a wider demographic. Staffed by trained employees and volunteers, the center is set to assist victims by guiding them towards crime victim compensation, forensic examinations, and counseling services.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster support for sexual assault victims, there may be discussions regarding funding, implementation challenges, and the sustainability of such a program. Furthermore, the expiration clause included in the bill, which requires evaluation by December 31, 2018, raises questions about the future of the program. Lawmakers and stakeholders may need to consider the adequacy of resources allocated for training staff and maintaining the call center, as well as the overall effectiveness of the program in achieving its intended goals.