Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2060

Caption

Relating to creating an independent ombudsman within the Texas Military Department.

Impact

The legislative intent behind SB2060 is to create a structured and accountable system for addressing allegations of misconduct within the Texas Military Department. By establishing this independent ombudsman, the bill aims to empower service members by providing them with a confidential avenue to report grievances and seek recourse for issues that may not have been adequately addressed through existing channels. This legislation is expected to improve trust in the department's handling of sensitive complaints and foster a safer environment for all personnel.

Summary

SB2060 proposes the establishment of an independent ombudsman within the Texas Military Department. This new position would be appointed by the governor, with a two-year term commencing from the appointment date. The ombudsman is designed to act independently, reporting only to the governor, thus ensuring that complaints regarding misconduct within the military department can be addressed without bias or interference. The key duties of the ombudsman include receiving and investigating complaints, such as those involving sexual harassment and assault, from service members and department employees, while ensuring confidentiality throughout the process.

Contention

Despite the presumably positive implications of SB2060, there could be points of contention regarding the independence and authority of the ombudsman. Some stakeholders may express concerns over the adequacy of resources and support for the ombudsman to effectively carry out investigations. Additionally, the relationship between the ombudsman and existing hierarchies within the Texas Military Department might raise questions about the influence of departmental culture on the ombudsman’s abilities to operate without interference or bias. Furthermore, the accountability of the ombudsman to the governor and legislature might be scrutinized, particularly in high-profile cases of alleged misconduct.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1386

Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB2114

Relating to the establishment of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Education Agency.

TX HB3427

Relating to the ombudsman office for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB1924

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.

TX HB89

Relating to the establishment of an ombudsman for parents of children enrolled in public school.

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4220

Relating to the office of the state long-term care ombudsman.

Similar Bills

MI HB4316

Legislature: legislative agencies; ombudsman for public employees; create. Creates new act.

MI HB4397

Legislature: legislative agencies; ombudsman for public employees; create. Creates new act.

VA SB1081

Children's Ombudsman, Office of the; removes Children's Advocacy Fund.

MI SB0432

Children: services; children's ombudsman; rename, and modify powers and duties. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 of 1994 PA 204 (MCL 722.921 et seq.).

MI HB4638

Children: services; powers and duties of the child advocate; modify. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 of 1994 PA 204 (MCL 722.921 et seq.).

MI SB0156

Legislature: legislative agencies; office of legislative corrections ombudsman; expand powers and duties. Amends secs. 1, 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 13 & 14 of 1975 PA 46 (MCL 4.351 et seq.).

MI SB0493

Legislature: legislative agencies; office of legislative corrections ombudsman; expand powers and duties and rename to office of legislative corrections ombudsperson. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 & 14 of 1975 PA 46 (MCL 4.351 et seq.).

TX HB1371

Relating to the creation of an independent ombudsman for children and youth in foster care.