Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1698

Caption

Relating to outreach and awareness for women veterans in this state.

Impact

The bill introduces new provisions in the Government Code that establish a framework for ongoing assessment of the needs of women veterans. By requiring a clear, structured approach to data collection and reporting, SB1698 lays the groundwork for more focused and potentially necessary funding and initiatives geared towards addressing the specific problems faced by women veterans. The implications for state laws include a systematic way to address disparities in service access and improve outcomes for women veterans across Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1698 aims to enhance outreach and awareness for women veterans in Texas by mandating the Texas Veterans Commission to produce a biannual report detailing the demographics, challenges, and services provided to women veterans in the state. This report must estimate the number of women veterans, their interaction with state services, and highlight the unique issues they face. It serves as a tool for identifying areas of concern and informing future policy directions to improve support for this demographic.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB1698 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for veterans' rights who see the importance of tailored outreach efforts. There is an acknowledgment of the unique contributions and challenges experienced by women in the military, thus highlighting the necessity for dedicated programs and recognition. The reception within legislative discussions indicates a collaborative effort to improve the situation of women veterans in Texas.

Contention

While the bill is generally well-received, conversations surrounding its implementation might reveal issues related to funding and resource allocation for the outreach campaign. Lawmakers may debate the sufficiency of current support and the necessity of state agency collaboration, particularly between the Texas Veterans Commission and other agencies. Ensuring successful outreach and adoption of provided benefits may also be areas of contention, highlighting the importance of sustained advocacy and oversight.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1958

Relating to maternal mortality and morbidity in this state and Medicaid eligibility of and coverage for certain services provided to pregnant women.

TX HB4965

Relating to measures to promote and support responsible fatherhood in this state.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB1575

Relating to improving health outcomes for pregnant women under Medicaid and certain other public benefits programs.

TX HB200

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.