Honorable James B. Frank, Chair, House Committee on Human Services
FROM:
John McGeady, Assistant Director Sarah Keyton, Assistant Director Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB821 by Nelson (Relating to children's advocacy centers.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would require the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to update policies and Memorandums of Understanding for children's advocacy centers. The bill would also require a DFPS executive officer or employee with decision-making authority to serve on the governing board of a local children's advocacy center.
Under current law, DFPS is required to refer a case to a children's advocacy center when conducting an investigation of a report of abuse that is made by a professional reporter and that meets certain conditions. The bill would expand the referral requirements to include cases of neglect.
LBB analysis of DFPS assumes that the agency could complete these provisions with existing resources.
Local Government Impact
According to Ellis County, Hays County, and Chambers County, no significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
529 Health and Human Services Commission, 530 Family and Protective Services, Department of