BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 504
84R1102 MK-D	By: Guillen (Zaffirini)
	Health & Human Services
	5/15/2015
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Direct support professionals are primary providers of publicly funded long-term support services for persons with physical and intellectual disabilities. The essential care provided by direct support professionals enables persons with disabilities to live meaningful and productive lives while remaining connected to their families and communities. The demand for caregivers employed in homes and community-based settings is continuing to grow. Direct support professionals enhance the lives of thousands of Texans while performing a vital service to persons with disabilities, whose day-to-day care may pose a challenge.

H.B. 504 declares the second full week in September as Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week. By observing Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, the State of Texas would honor the work of direct support professionals whose contributions are indispensable to countless Texans.

H.B. 504 amends current law relating to designating the second full week in September as Direct Support Professionals Week.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter E, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.155, as follows:

Sec. 662.155.  DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS WEEK.  Provides that the second full week in September is Direct Support Professionals Week to honor the work of direct support professionals as an integral part of the long-term support system for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2015.