BILL ANALYSIS
By: Jones, Jesse
Committee Report (Substituted)
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The Governor's Task Force on Homeland Security recognized the importance of Texans having adequate safety information to ensure that the State is prepared to meet any threats. There are numerous education programs on Homeland Security, including programs on bioterrorism disaster preparedness, family safety plans, and emergency planning for persons with disabilities. Federal grants are available to assist in funding relevant education programs. Funding for these programs should also be directed to engage and educate senior Texans about issues relating to homeland security. C.S.H.B. 2459 directs the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) to apply for federal funding available to provide homeland security training for older persons.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
The bill defines "older person" as a person who is sixty years of age or older.
The bill directs DADS, after notifying the Office of the Governor and with the assistance of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), to apply for federal funding available to provide homeland security training for older persons.
If DADS receives a federal grant for such purposes, bill requires DADS, with the assistance of DPS, to establish and operate a program to provide older persons with training on homeland security issues that affect their safety and well-being, and to seek assistance from appropriate state agencies, local governments, or other organizations in administering the training.
The bill provides that the training must be consistent with the Governor's homeland security strategy, and must educate older persons about related programs and resources that are available to provide additional assistance.
The bill sets forth timelines and procedures relating to application for federal funds and administration of a homeland security training program for older persons.
EFFECTIVE DATE
Upon passage or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act takes effect September 1, 2005.
COMPARISON OF ORIGINAL TO SUBSTITUTE
The original and the substitute amend different chapters of the Human Resources Code.
The original does not include a definition of "older person." The substitute does.
The original requires DADS to seek the cooperation of area agencies on aging to assist with the administration of the training. The substitute requires DADS to seek assistance from appropriate state agencies, local governments, and other organizations in administering the training.