Enrolled Bill Summary

House Bill 1396 requires the Texas Department of Human Services to evaluate the department's approach to licensing intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded and consider appropriate distinctions between nursing and intermediate care facilities. In conducting its evaluation, the department must consult with the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, facility providers and staff, advocates for facility residents, and facility residents and their families. The department must present a report, to include any recommendations it has based on its evaluation, to the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house by October 1, 2000.