Honorable James B. Frank, Chair, House Committee on Human Services
FROM:
John McGeady, Assistant Director Sarah Keyton, Assistant Director Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3370 by Deshotel (Relating to the investigation of a complaint made by a foster child or youth and the results of the investigation.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would require the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to notify a child in conservatorship of DFPS of the outcome of an inquiry of the ombudsman related to a report made by the child if it is in the best interest of the child. DFPS would be required to ensure the child received counseling and other assistance as necessary. The bill would require the ombudsman to compile a monthly report regarding each complaint that was investigated in the preceding month, the ombudsman's final determination, and any recommended corrective action. The bill would also require DFPS and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) child care licensing division to provide written notice to the ombudsman whether they accepted or rejected the ombudsman's recommended corrective action and the reason for any rejection. DFPS and HHSC determined that the provisions of the bill could be implemented using existing resources. The bill would take effect September 1, 2019.
Local Government Impact
No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
529 Health and Human Services Commission, 530 Family and Protective Services, Department of