Texas Senate Bill SB310

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the sunset review process and certain governmental entities subject to that process.

Impact

The bill would repeal existing provisions for specific entities such as the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force, the Palliative Care Interdisciplinary Advisory Council, and the Perinatal Advisory Council, removing them from the sunset review process entirely. This change is significant because it suggests a shift in how maternal health oversight may be structured in Texas. By discontinuing these advisory councils, the bill indicates the legislative intent to streamline governmental operations and potentially redirect focus towards areas deemed more critical.

Summary

Senate Bill 310 focuses on the sunset review process for certain governmental entities within the state of Texas, proposing to subject these entities to a systematic evaluation to determine their continued existence. Specifically, the bill indicates that several key offices and commissions, including the Office of State-Federal Relations and the Texas Facilities Commission, will be given a sunset date of September 1, 2025. The intent is to promote accountability and efficiency within state operations, ensuring that entities that no longer serve a relevant purpose can be properly phased out.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB310 may arise from concerns about the consequences of disbanding councils focused on maternal mortality and palliative care. Critics could argue that eliminating these councils undermines efforts to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. On the other hand, supporters might insist that the bill enhances efficacy and targets resources toward more pressing regulatory needs, highlighting the need for governmental agencies to continuously justify their existence in terms of public benefit.

Notable_points

By amending existing laws and establishing a clear timeline for sunset reviews of certain entities, SB310 aligns with broader movements within state governance toward regular assessments of agency performance. This bill, therefore, stands at the intersection of public health policy and administrative efficiency, reflecting ongoing discussions about the role of state entities in meeting the needs of Texan citizens.