Texas House Bill HB3691

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the statewide implementation of community-based foster care by the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The impact of HB 3691 on state laws is significant as it modifies existing statutes within the Texas Family Code regarding foster care and child welfare. The bill mandates that community-based care should be carried out with measurable goals related to child safety and family integrity. By aligning with federal child welfare goals, the bill reinforces the objective of keeping children out of foster care when possible and promotes the usage of relatives and kinship caregivers. This shift is expected to influence various facets of the child welfare system, including funding structures and the operational framework for service providers.

Summary

House Bill 3691 aims to implement a statewide approach to community-based foster care managed by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). This bill introduces a framework for contracting nonprofit and local governmental entities to provide essential child welfare services, focusing on preventing children's entry into substitute care by emphasizing family preservation and reunification. The legislation is a response to the need for more localized and effective support systems for children in foster care, ensuring their safety and well-being within their home communities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 3691 appears to be supportive among child welfare advocates and legislators who view community-based care as a progressive measure to address the shortcomings in the current system. However, there are underlying concerns regarding the effectiveness and accountability of contractors selected to manage these services. While proponents laud the bill for its potential to enhance service quality, there remains skepticism about ensuring adequate oversight and maintaining stringent performance evaluation metrics to protect vulnerable children.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 3691 include debates over the adequacy of performance review measures and the criteria used to select contractors. Critics worry that relying on private entities to manage essential welfare services could lead to inconsistent service quality and a lack of focus on the unique needs of individual communities. Moreover, concerns have emerged about balancing financial incentives for contractors with the overarching goal of improving child outcomes, raising questions about whether profit motivations might overshadow prioritizing children and families' needs.