Texas House Bill HB3127

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to contracts for family support services.

Impact

A significant aspect of HB3127 is its focus on establishing measurable goals and objectives within the contracts. These include targets such as the number of child placements, children receiving services, and those adopted. Furthermore, it implements a financial restriction wherein no more than 10% of the annual legislative appropriation can be allocated for administrative costs, ensuring that the bulk of the funding directly aids children and families in need.

Summary

House Bill 3127 relates to contracts for family support services, aiming to enhance permanency options and other positive outcomes for children and youth under the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. The bill mandates the commission to contract with a statewide organization specializing in family finding and adoption support services. This organization must be a tax-exempt entity, demonstrating expertise in providing verified metrics and results in similar privatized settings.

Contention

While HB3127 is designed to streamline services and improve outcomes in child welfare, there are points of contention regarding its implementation and effectiveness. Critiques may arise concerning the choice of contracting entities, especially regarding their capacity to fulfill these ambitious goals and the potential for administrative burdens that could arise despite the low percentage allocated for administrative expenses. These aspects warrant careful consideration as the bill moves forward in the legislative process.