Bill Caption

Relating to the regulation and inspection procedures of certain long-term care facilities, including a survey of certain facilities' emergency power sources.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 1423 would transfer from The Department of State Health Services to the Health and Human Services Commission the duty of conducting inspections of convalescent, nursing facilities, and related institutions. The bill would also revise the timing of mandatory inspections. 

HB 1423 would further allow the commission to conduct a follow-up inspection of an institution to evaluate their initial findings and ensure the commission is citing institutional deficiencies consistently. HB 1423 would also require the commission to evaluate their own capacity to regulate institutions and formulate a strategy to effectively perform licensing, enforcement, and complaint duties at least annually. 

A survey on the number of facilities that are equipped with an operational emergency generator or comparable emergency power source that is capable of providing continuous electric utility services during an emergency would be required to be conducted before September 1, 2022 and the results posted to HHSC's website.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action is neutral toward HB 1423 which is more administrative than substantive in nature and does not appear to conflict with our liberty principles.