BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2558

By: Turner, Sylvester

Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Prior to and following a natural disaster or emergency, it is essential for local emergency responders to be aware of which individuals may be homebound and in need of emergency assistance. Many times the elderly and those with special needs do not register themselves with the 2-1-1 Texas Information and Referral Network that allows emergency responders to know in advance which individuals may be in need of emergency assistance. Home and community support agencies provide direct services to many of these individuals and are in an excellent position to assist these individuals in registering with 2-1-1.

H.B. 2558 requires home and community support services to assist clients as necessary in registering for disaster evacuation assistance through 2-1-1 services and to counsel clients as necessary regarding disaster preparedness.

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. 2558 amends the Health and Safety Code to require a home and community support services agency to assist clients as necessary with registering for disaster evacuation assistance through 2-1-1 services provided by the Texas Information and Referral Network and to counsel clients as necessary regarding disaster preparedness.

EFFECTIVE DATE

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