Texas Senate Bill SB820

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to leave for state employees who are foster parents or prospective foster parents.

Impact

The bill ensures that state employees who foster children can fulfill their responsibilities without the fear of losing income or jeopardizing their leave balances. Notably, it grants up to 40 hours of paid leave per year for various activities related to fostering, such as attending medical appointments or court-ordered visits. This supportive measure recognizes the significant commitments foster parents undertake and aims to ease their burden as they navigate both their professional obligations and their roles in fostering.

Summary

Senate Bill 820 is designed to provide enhanced support to state employees who are foster parents or prospective foster parents. It amends Section 661.906 of the Government Code to ensure that these employees are entitled to a leave of absence without reduction in salary for specific purposes. This includes attending meetings organized by the Department of Family and Protective Services concerning the child under their care as well as school-related meetings that focus on the child's welfare.

Contention

While the bill appears to be a positive step towards supporting foster parents, it may face scrutiny regarding the allocation of state resources. Critics may argue about the potential implications for state budgets and whether economic priorities should shift to accommodate additional paid leave. Moreover, questions may arise about the impact of this bill on employers and the potential for increased costs associated with employee absences due to foster care commitments.