Relating to the creation of the child and adult protective investigations advisory committee in the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Impact
The formation of this advisory committee is intended to standardize investigative practices across Texas, thereby improving due process rights for those involved in abuse investigations. The bill requires the committee to make policy recommendations that aim at ensuring fair treatment regardless of an individual’s race, gender, age, or socioeconomic status. Furthermore, it mandates annual reports that will provide transparency into the number of investigations, case dispositions, and the challenges faced in standardizing investigative processes.
Summary
House Bill 1502 aims to establish the Child and Adult Protective Investigations Advisory Committee within the Department of Family and Protective Services in Texas. The purpose of this committee is to enhance the accuracy and consistency of investigative legal requirements and department policies during investigations related to child and adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The bill outlines the committee's responsibilities, which include advising the department on developing effective training, creating a uniform investigative model, and increasing public input on problems related to investigations.
Contention
While the bill seeks to create a more structured approach to investigations, potential points of contention may arise regarding the balance of power, particularly how the advisory committee interacts with existing agency protocols and local jurisdictions. There may also be concerns related to resource allocation for training and support, and the effectiveness of the committee in addressing the complexities of abuse investigations. The need for regular public testimony and archived meetings can promote accountability but may also raise questions over the accessibility of these proceedings to all stakeholders, especially those involved in sensitive cases.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Human Resources Code
Chapter 40. Department Of Family And Protective Services
Identical
Relating to the creation of the child and adult protective investigations advisory committee in the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Same As
Relating to advisory bodies for the Department of Family and Protective Services, including the creation of the child protective investigations advisory committee and the abolition of the Family and Protective Services Council.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship, investigations by the Department of Family and Protective Services, and parental child safety placements.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to certain procedures in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship for a child placed in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the provision of family preservation services and community-based foster care.
Relating to notifying an alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect of the person's rights in connection with an investigation conducted by the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services' annual report of key performance measures and data elements for child protection; authorizing a penalty.
Relating to advisory bodies for the Department of Family and Protective Services, including the creation of the child protective investigations advisory committee and the abolition of the Family and Protective Services Council.
Relating to the financial crimes intelligence center, including the establishment of an advisory committee and grants supporting the investigation and prosecution of certain offenses.