Bill: SB 602, 85(R) - 2017
Committee
Senate Health & Human Services
Vote Recommendation
| Vote Recommendation |
Economic Freedom |
Property Rights |
Personal Responsibility |
Limited Government |
Individual Liberty |
| Yes |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Positive |
Neutral |
Author(s)
Brian Birdwell
Donna Campbell
Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
Charles Schwertner
Bill Caption
Relating to the establishment of a restructuring commission to evaluate each state supported living center.
Fiscal Notes
From the LBB: No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
Bill Analysis
This bill would work towards reform of state supported living centers by:
- Creating the state supported living center restructuring commission to ensure that the state maintains only the number of SSLCs necessary to meet the level of need in the state. The commission would be required to submit a report detailing their evaluation of each SSLC and their recommendation for the center to be consolidated, downsized repurposed, or closed, if applicable.
- The restructuring commission would expire January 1, 2019
- Any SSLC recommended for closure would be required to close no later than August 31, 2023 and have a closure plan providing for the transition of its patients to community based services. The legislature would have to approve the recommendation of the closure of an SSLC.
- The proceeds from any closure would only be appropriated for services to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Vote Recommendation Notes
Texas SSLCs are in dire need of evaluation and reform as the costs for upkeep of these facilities continue to rise while the populations they serve shrink as more patients choose community based services. This commission would do the necessary work of evaluating these facilities and restructuring the system as is necessary. This is in keeping with limited government, therefore we support this legislation.
