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.