SRC-SLL H.B. 2126 75(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 2126
By: Maxey (Shapleigh)
Health & Human Services
5-5-97
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, the Department of Human Services (department) has an evaluation
team that conducts research on the department's programs; however, the
existence of the research department is at the discretion of the
commissioner of the agency.  There have been a number of instances in
which the evaluation unit was dissolved, most recently in 1989.  The
current unit was established in 1992. Recreating the evaluation unit is a
time-consuming process that could be avoided if the department was
required to maintain the unit at all times.  This bill will require the
department to evaluate and improve its programs. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 2126 requires the Department of Human Services to
evaluate and improve its programs. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 22, Human Resources Code, by adding Section
22.0015, as follows: 

Sec.  22.0015.  EVALUATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PROGRAMS.  Requires the
Department of Human Services (department) to conduct research, analysis,
and reporting of its programs to evaluate and improve the programs.
Authorizes the department to contract with one or more independent private
entities to assist the department with the research, analysis, and
reporting required by this section. 

SECTION 2. Requires the department, not later than January 15, 1999, to
report to certain persons regarding the department's success in evaluating
and improving its programs.  Requires the department to notify certain
persons of the filing of the report. 

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1997.

SECTION 4. Emergency clause.