Texas House Bill HB4598

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to reestablishing the in-home and family support program.

Impact

The reestablishment of the in-home and family support program is expected to significantly benefit individuals with disabilities by enabling them to remain in their homes or community settings rather than being relegated to institutional care. This aligns with broader legislative trends that advocate for increased autonomy and support for disabled individuals. The bill encourages community engagement and presents a cost-effective alternative to institutionalized living, potentially lessening the burden on state-funded care services.

Summary

House Bill 4598 aims to reestablish the in-home and family support program in Texas, focusing on providing necessary benefits to individuals with disabilities. The bill defines disabilities and sets forth provisions for a program that allows individuals or their guardians to purchase items that facilitate living in a community-based setting. This revival is modeled after a previous program administered by the former Department of Aging and Disability Services, thereby preserving the essence of community support for individuals with disabilities.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intention to enhance the quality of life for disabled individuals, there may be concerns regarding funding and implementation. Questions about the adequacy of resources to sustain the program and the potential bureaucratic challenges of re-establishing the initiative are anticipated points of contention among lawmakers. Furthermore, the requirement for state agencies to seek federal waivers before the program's full implementation could delay the rollout, affecting timely access for those in need.