Texas House Bill HB4400

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a pilot program to create additional housing for certain individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability through a Medicaid waiver program.

Impact

The pilot program set forth by HB 4400 will impact state laws by allocating funding from general obligation bonds to support the community-based housing initiatives. It is intended to relieve pressure on state-supported living centers by reducing the number of individuals residing there, thereby subsequently decreasing the state's responsibility for their upkeep. This program is also expected to foster the growth of community services and support systems for people with disabilities.

Summary

House Bill 4400 aims to establish a pilot program focused on creating additional housing for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities through a Medicaid waiver program. The bill proposes funding for community non-profit corporations to facilitate this housing initiative, specifically targeting counties with larger populations. The program is envisioned to last for ten years and is designed to address the housing needs of a significant number of individuals in this demographic.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the implementation of HB 4400, particularly concerning its reliance on the approval of a constitutional amendment that allows for the issuance of general obligation bonds. This could raise debates around public funding and priorities in legislative discussions. Additionally, concerns might arise regarding the effectiveness of the pilot program and its ability to genuinely offset the costs associated with housing these individuals, along with questions about the long-term sustainability and oversight of such initiatives.