LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD

Austin, Texas

FISCAL NOTE, 78TH LEGISLATIVE REGULAR SESSION

May 7, 2003

TO:	Honorable Harold V. Dutton, Jr., Chair, House Committee on Juvenile Justice & Family Issues
FROM:	John Keel, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:	SB1490 by Ogden (Relating to certain investigation requirements and other procedures in connection with an allegation of child abuse or neglect.), As Engrossed

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Except when good cause exists not to do so, the bill would require that all interviews by investigative agencies other than the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (PRS) with a child who is alleged to be a victim of abuse be audiotaped or videotaped.

The bill would require PRS to audiotape or videotape these interviews; however, this requirement would not apply if the child's parents were present during the interview or a court waives the requirement. The bill further would provide a mechanism where an adversary hearing could be requested earlier than 14 days after the date a child was taken into possession by the governmental entity. PRS indicates no significant fiscal impact.

Local Government Impact

No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Source Agencies:

302 Office of the Attorney General, 530 Department of Protective and Regulatory Services

LBB Staff:

JK, GO, VDS, AJ