BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1850

By: Lucio III

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, the South Texas Health Care System, also know as the Rio Grande State Center/South Texas Health Care System is the only public provider south of San Antonio, Texas, that offers health care, inpatient mental health services, and long-term mental retardation services. This unique configuration of services has been provided to the Rio Grande Valley since 1956.
 

H.B. 1850 changes the name of the of the Rio Grande State Center/South Texas Health Care System to the Rio Grande State Center. The shortening of the center's name recognizes the historical leadership of the Rio Grande State Center and will bring great pride to the men and women who have devoted their careers to the service of their patients.

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

H.B. 1850 amends the Health and Safety Code to change the name of the South Texas Health Care System to the Rio Grande State Center and make conforming changes.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the act does not receive the necessary vote, the act takes effect September 1, 2009.