SRC-SLL H.B. 3778 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 3778
By: Luna, Vilma (Gallegos)
Human Services
5/3/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services is not
required to employ a person who focuses only on child abuse and neglect
investigation issues.  H.B. 3778 sets forth regulations regarding the
coordination by the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services of
investigations of reports of child abuse or neglect. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 3778 sets forth regulations regarding the coordination by
the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services of investigations of
reports of child abuse or neglect. 

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 261D, Family Code, by adding Section 261.3125,
as follows: 

Sec.  261.3125.  INVESTIGATIONS COORDINATOR.  Requires the Department of
Protective and Regulatory Services (department) to employ in each region of
the department for child protective services at least one child protective
services investigations coordinator (coordinator).  Requires the job
responsibilities of the coordinator to focus only on child abuse and
neglect investigation issues, including reports of child abuse required by
Section 261.101, and on assessing and improving the effectiveness of the
department in providing for the protection of children in the region.  Sets
forth the duties of a coordinator.   

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 1999.

SECTION 3.  Emergency clause.