CLC S.B. 115 75(R)BILL ANALYSIS


HUMAN SERVICES
S.B. 115
By: Zaffirini (Maxey)
5-16-97
Committee Report (Unamended)


BACKGROUND 

Currently, the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (DPRS) is
not authorized to assign priorities to an investigation conducted at
Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (MHMR) facilities by
DPRS.  This bill grants DPRS the rulemaking authority to prioritize
investigations at MHMR facilities in an effort to more efficiently use
staff time and resources; and establishes the primary prioritization
criteria.     

PURPOSE

As proposed, C.S.S.B. 115 grants rulemaking authority to the Department of
Protective and Regulatory Services in assigning priorities to certain
investigations. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill grants rulemaking authority to the Department of Protective and
Regulatory Services in SECTION 1 (Section 48.081(g), Human Resources Code)
of this bill.   

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 48.081, Human Resources Code, by amending
Subsection (g) and adding Subsection (h), to authorize the Department of
Protective and Regulatory Services (DPRS), by rule, to assign priorities
to an investigation conducted by DPRS.  Provides that the primary
prioritization criteria will be the risk that delaying the investigation
has on the collection of evidence in the case.  Makes a conforming change. 

SECTION 2. Emergency clause.
  Effective date:  90 days upon adjournment.