BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1679

By: Raymond

Human Services

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Since the passage of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act in 1975, states have been required to establish state developmental disabilities councils to receive federal funding to advocate for persons with developmental disabilities.  In Texas, the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities serves in this role.  The federal government funds the council to engage in advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities that promote self-determination for people with developmental disabilities and their families.  

The Sunset Commission determined Texas continues to need the council to receive federal funds to identify and address the most pressing needs of Texans with developmental disabilities to allow them to gain more control over their lives.  The council is subject to the Sunset Act and will be abolished on September 1, 2015, unless continued by the Legislature.  The bill contains the Sunset Commission recommendation to continue the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities for 12 years.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

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

Continues the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities

H.B. 1679 changes the council’s Sunset review date to 2027, continuing the council for 12 years.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.