CHAPTER 161. DEPARTMENT OF AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES - Texas Statutes

HUMAN RESOURCES CODETITLE 11. AGING, COMMUNITY-BASED, AND LONG-TERM CARE SERVICESCHAPTER 161. DEPARTMENT OF AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICESSUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONSSec. 161.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:(1) "Commission" means the Health and Human Services Commission.(2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of aging and disability services.(3) "Council" means the Aging and Disability Services Council.(4) "Department" means the Department of Aging and Disability Services.(5) "Executive commissioner" means the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.002. AGENCY. The department is an agency of the state.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.003. SUNSET PROVISION. The Department of Aging and Disability Services is subject to Chapter 325, Government Code (Texas Sunset Act). Unless continued in existence as provided by that chapter, the department is abolished and this chapter expires September 1, 2013.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.Amended by: Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 928, Sec. 3.08, eff. June 15, 2007.Acts 2009, 81st Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 2, Sec. 2.15, eff. July 10, 2009.

SUBCHAPTER B. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONSSec. 161.021. AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES COUNCIL. (a) The Aging and Disability Services Council is created to assist the commissioner in developing rules and policies for the department.(b) The council is composed of nine members of the public appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. To be eligible for appointment to the council, a person must have demonstrated an interest in and knowledge of issues and available services related to the aging and persons with developmental disabilities or mental retardation.(c) The council shall study and make recommendations to the executive commissioner and the commissioner regarding the management and operation of the department, including policies and rules governing the delivery of services to persons who are served by the department and the rights and duties of persons who are served or regulated by the department.(d) Chapter 551, Government Code, applies to the council.(e) Chapter 2110, Government Code, does not apply to the council.(f) A majority of the members of the council constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.022. APPOINTMENTS. (a) Appointments to the council shall be made without regard to the race, color, disability, sex, religion, age, or national origin of the appointees.(b) Appointments to the council shall be made so that each geographic area of the state is represented on the council. Notwithstanding Subsection (a), appointments to the council must reflect the ethnic diversity of this state.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.023. TRAINING PROGRAM FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS. (a) A person who is appointed as a member of the council may not vote, deliberate, or be counted as a member in attendance at a meeting of the council until the person completes a training program that complies with this section.(b) The training program must provide the person with information regarding:(1) the legislation that created the department and the council;(2) the programs operated by the department;(3) the role and functions of the department and the council, including detailed information regarding:(A) the division of authority and of responsibility between the commissioner and the executive commissioner; and(B) the advisory responsibilities of the council;(4) the rules of the executive commissioner applicable to the department, with an emphasis on the rules that relate to disciplinary and investigatory authority;(5) the current budget for the department;(6) the results of the most recent formal audit of the department;(7) the requirements of:(A) the open meetings law, Chapter 551, Government Code;(B) the public information law, Chapter 552, Government Code;(C) the administrative procedure law, Chapter 2001, Government Code; and(D) other laws relating to public officials, including conflict-of-interest laws; and(8) any applicable ethics policies adopted by the executive commissioner or the Texas Ethics Commission.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.024. TERMS. (a) Council members serve for staggered six-year terms with the terms of three members expiring February 1 of each odd-numbered year.(b) A member of the council may not serve more than two consecutive full terms as a council member.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.025. VACANCY. The governor by appointment shall fill the unexpired term of a vacancy on the council.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.026. PRESIDING OFFICER; OTHER OFFICERS; MEETINGS. (a) The governor shall designate a member of the council as the presiding officer to serve in that capacity at the pleasure of the governor.(b) The members of the council shall elect any other necessary officers.(c) The council shall meet quarterly and at other times at the call of the presiding officer. The council may hold meetings in different areas of the state.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.027. REIMBURSEMENT FOR EXPENSES. A council member may not receive compensation for service as a member of the council but is entitled to reimbursement for travel expenses incurred by the member while conducting the business of the council as provided by the General Appropriations Act.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.028. PUBLIC INTEREST INFORMATION AND COMPLAINTS. (a) The commissioner, with the advice of the council, shall prepare information of public interest describing the functions of the department and the procedures by which complaints are filed with and resolved by the department. The commission shall make the information available to the public and appropriate state governmental entities.(b) The executive commissioner by rule shall establish methods by which consumers and service recipients are notified of the name, mailing address, and telephone number of the department for directing complaints to the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.029. PUBLIC ACCESS AND TESTIMONY. (a) The commissioner shall develop and implement policies that provide the public with a reasonable opportunity to appear before the commissioner and to speak on any issue under the jurisdiction of the department.(b) The commissioner shall grant an opportunity for a public hearing before the council makes recommendations to the commissioner regarding a substantive rule if a public hearing is requested by:(1) at least 25 persons;(2) a governmental entity; or(3) an association with at least 25 members.(c) The executive commissioner shall consider fully all written and oral submissions about a proposed rule.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.030. POLICYMAKING AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES. The executive commissioner, with the advice of the council and subject to the approval of the executive commissioner, shall develop and the department shall implement policies that clearly delineate the policymaking responsibilities of the executive commissioner from the management responsibilities of the commission, the commissioner, and the staff of the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.031. ANNUAL REPORT. (a) The commissioner shall file annually with the governor, the presiding officer of each house of the legislature, and the executive commissioner a complete and detailed written report accounting for all funds received and disbursed by the department during the preceding fiscal year.(b) The annual report must be in the form and be reported in the time provided by the General Appropriations Act.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.032. OFFICES. The department shall maintain its central office in Austin. The department may maintain offices in other areas of the state as necessary.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

SUBCHAPTER C. PERSONNELSec. 161.051. COMMISSIONER. (a) The executive commissioner shall appoint a commissioner of the department with the approval of the governor. The commissioner is to be selected according to education, training, experience, and demonstrated ability.(b) The commissioner serves at the pleasure of the executive commissioner.(c) Subject to the control of the executive commissioner, the commissioner shall act as the department's chief administrative officer and as a liaison between the department and commission.(d) The commissioner shall administer this chapter under operational policies established by the executive commissioner and in accordance with the memorandum of understanding under Section 531.0055(k), Government Code, between the commissioner and the executive commissioner, as adopted by rule.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.0515. ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF STATE SUPPORTED LIVING CENTERS. (a) The commissioner shall employ an assistant commissioner of state supported living centers. The assistant commissioner must be selected based on education, training, experience, and demonstrated ability.(b) The assistant commissioner reports directly to the commissioner.(c) The assistant commissioner shall supervise the operation of the state supported living centers. As part of that duty, the assistant commissioner shall:(1) verify that quality health and medical services are being provided in state supported living centers;(2) verify and certify employee qualifications for employees of a state supported living center; and(3) work with the commissioner to create administrative guidelines for proper implementation of federal and state statutory law and judicial decisions.(d) The assistant commissioner shall coordinate with the appropriate staff of the Department of State Health Services to ensure that the ICF-MR component of the Rio Grande State Center implements and enforces state law and rules that apply to the operation of state supported living centers.(e) The assistant commissioner shall consult with the appropriate staff at the Department of State Health Services to ensure that an individual with a dual diagnosis of mental illness and mental retardation who is a resident of a state supported living center or the ICF-MR component of the Rio Grande State Center is provided with appropriate care and treatment.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 36, eff. June 11, 2009.

Sec. 161.052. PERSONNEL. (a) The department may employ, compensate, and prescribe the duties of personnel necessary and suitable to administer this chapter.(b) The executive commissioner shall prepare and by rule adopt personnel standards.(c) A personnel position may be filled only by an individual selected and appointed on a nonpartisan merit basis.(d) The commissioner, with the advice of the council, shall develop and the department shall implement policies that clearly define the responsibilities of the staff of the department.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.053. INFORMATION ABOUT QUALIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS OF CONDUCT. The commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall provide to department employees, as often as necessary, information regarding the requirements for employment under this chapter or rules adopted by the executive commissioner, including information regarding a person's responsibilities under applicable laws relating to standards of conduct for state employees.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.054. MERIT PAY. Subject to rules adopted by the executive commissioner, the commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall develop a system of annual performance evaluations. All merit pay for department employees must be given under the system established under this section or under rules adopted by the executive commissioner.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.055. CAREER LADDER. The commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall develop an intra-agency career ladder program. The program must require intra-agency postings of all nonentry-level positions concurrently with any public posting.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.056. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY. (a) Subject to rules adopted by the executive commissioner, the commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall prepare and maintain a written policy statement that implements a program of equal employment opportunity to ensure that all personnel decisions are made without regard to race, color, disability, sex, religion, age, or national origin.(b) Unless the following are included in a policy statement adopted by the executive commissioner that is applicable to the department, the policy statement must include:(1) personnel policies, including policies relating to recruitment, evaluation, selection, training, and promotion of personnel, that show the intent of the department to avoid the unlawful employment practices described by Chapter 21, Labor Code; and(2) an analysis of the extent to which the composition of the department's personnel is in accordance with state and federal law and a description of reasonable methods to achieve compliance with state and federal law.(c) The policy statement must be:(1) updated annually;(2) reviewed by the state Commission on Human Rights for compliance with Subsection (b)(1); and(3) filed with the governor's office.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

SUBCHAPTER D. POWERS AND DUTIES OF DEPARTMENTSec. 161.071. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF DEPARTMENT. The department is responsible for administering human services programs for the aging and disabled, including:(1) administering and coordinating programs to provide community-based care and support services to promote independent living for populations that would otherwise be institutionalized;(2) providing institutional care services, including services through convalescent and nursing homes and related institutions under Chapter 242, Health and Safety Code;(3) providing and coordinating programs and services for persons with disabilities, including programs for the treatment, rehabilitation, or benefit of persons with developmental disabilities or mental retardation;(4) operating state facilities for the housing, treatment, rehabilitation, or benefit of persons with disabilities, including state schools for persons with mental retardation;(5) serving as the state unit on aging required by the federal Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. Section 3001 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments, including performing the general functions under Section 101.022 to ensure:(A) implementation of the federal Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. Section 3001 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments, including implementation of services and volunteer opportunities under that Act for older residents of this state through area agencies on aging;(B) advocacy for residents of nursing facilities through the office of the state long-term care ombudsman;(C) fostering of the state and community infrastructure and capacity to serve older residents of this state; and(D) availability of a comprehensive resource for state government and the public on trends related to and services and programs for an aging population;(6) performing all licensing and enforcement activities and functions related to long-term care facilities, including licensing and enforcement activities related to convalescent and nursing homes and related institutions under Chapter 242, Health and Safety Code;(7) performing all licensing and enforcement activities related to assisted living facilities under Chapter 247, Health and Safety Code;(8) performing all licensing and enforcement activities related to intermediate care facilities for persons with mental retardation under Chapter 252, Health and Safety Code;(9) performing all licensing and enforcement activities and functions related to home and community support services agencies under Chapter 142, Health and Safety Code; and(10) serving as guardian of the person or estate, or both, for an incapacitated individual as provided by Subchapter E of this chapter and Chapter XIII, Texas Probate Code.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.Amended by: Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.03, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.072. INFORMATION REGARDING COMPLAINTS. (a) The department shall maintain a file on each written complaint filed with the department. The file must include:(1) the name of the person who filed the complaint;(2) the date the complaint is received by the department;(3) the subject matter of the complaint;(4) the name of each person contacted in relation to the complaint;(5) a summary of the results of the review or investigation of the complaint; and(6) an explanation of the reason the file was closed, if the department closed the file without taking action other than to investigate the complaint.(b) The department shall provide to the person filing the complaint and to each person who is a subject of the complaint a copy of the executive commissioner's and the department's policies and procedures relating to complaint investigation and resolution.(c) The department, at least quarterly until final disposition of the complaint, shall notify the person filing the complaint and each person who is a subject of the complaint of the status of the investigation unless the notice would jeopardize an undercover investigation.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.073. RULES. The executive commissioner may adopt rules reasonably necessary for the department to administer this chapter, consistent with the memorandum of understanding under Section 531.0055(k), Government Code, between the commissioner and the executive commissioner, as adopted by rule.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 198, Sec. 1.13A.

Sec. 161.074. COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM. (a) The department shall establish a competitive grant program that promotes innovation in the delivery of aging and disability services and improves the quality of life for individuals receiving those services.(b) A grant awarded by the department under the program shall be used to:(1) test innovative practices in the provision of aging and disability services; or(2) disseminate information regarding innovative practices being used to provide aging and disability services.(c) The department shall request proposals for the award of a grant under the program. The department shall evaluate the proposals and award a grant based on a proposal's academic soundness, quantifiable effectiveness, and potentially positive impact on the delivery of aging and disability services.(d) A grant awarded under Subsection (b)(1) must be made to an institution of higher education working in cooperation with a private entity that has committed resources to the project described in the proposal.(e) A grant recipient may use grant money received under this section only to pay for activities directly related to the purpose of the grant program as described by Subsection (b) and may not use grant money for fees or advertising.(f) The department shall establish procedures to administer the grant program, including a procedure for the submission of a proposal and a procedure to be used by the department to evaluate a proposal.(g) The department shall enter into a contract that includes performance requirements with each grant recipient. The department shall monitor and enforce the terms of the contract. The contract must authorize the department to recoup grant money from a grant recipient for failure of the grant recipient to comply with the terms of the contract.(h) The department shall post on its website a summary of each grant awarded under this section.(i) The legislature may appropriate money described by Sections 142.0174, 242.0695, 247.0458, and 252.069, Health and Safety Code, including unexpended and unobligated amounts collected during a previous state fiscal biennium, to fund the grant program authorized by this section.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 786, Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.075. IMMUNITY FOR AREA AGENCIES ON AGING AND AGENCY EMPLOYEES AND VOLUNTEERS. (a) In this section:(1) "Area agency on aging" means an agency described by 42 U.S.C. Section 3002(17) and through which the department ensures the implementation of services and volunteer opportunities for older persons in this state as provided by Section 161.071(5)(A).(2) "Texas nonprofit organization" means a nonprofit corporation:(A) that is organized under the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act (Article 1396-1.01 et seq., Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes); and(B) the funding of which is managed by an organization that is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 by being listed as an exempt organization in Section 501(c)(3) of that code.(3) "Volunteer" means a person who:(A) renders services for or on behalf of an area agency on aging under the supervision of an area agency on aging employee; and(B) does not receive compensation that exceeds the authorized expenses the person incurs in performing those services.(b) An area agency on aging that conducts an election on behalf of a Texas nonprofit organization is not civilly or criminally liable for any act or omission, including an act or omission relating to verifying the qualifications of candidates and determining and reporting election results, that relates to a duty or responsibility with respect to conducting the election if the agency acted in good faith and within the scope of the agency's authority.(c) An area agency on aging employee or volunteer who performs an act related to the conduct of an election described by Subsection (b) is not civilly or criminally liable for the act or any omission that relates to a duty or responsibility with respect to conducting the election if the person acted in good faith and within the scope of the person's authority.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 594, Sec. 12, eff. September 1, 2007.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 269, Sec. 1For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, see other Sec. 161.076.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 726, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.076.Sec. 161.076. ELIGIBILITY FOR DEAF-BLIND WITH MULTIPLE DISABILITIES WAIVER PROGRAM. (a) Subject to the availability of funds appropriated for that purpose, the department shall provide home-based and community-based services under the deaf-blind with multiple disabilities waiver program without regard to a person's age if the person applies for and is otherwise eligible to receive services under the waiver program.(b) Subsection (a) does not prevent the department from establishing an age requirement with respect to other programs or services offered to persons who are deaf-blind and have multiple disabilities, including the summer outdoor training program for deaf-blind multihandicapped individuals established under Section 22.036(c).

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 269, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 2009.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 269, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.076.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 726, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.076.Sec. 161.076. ON-SITE SURVEYS OF CERTAIN PROVIDERS. At least every 12 months, the department shall conduct an unannounced on-site survey in each group home, other than a foster home, at which a Home and Community-based Services (HCS) provider provides services.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, eff. June 11, 2009.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 726, Sec. 1For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 269, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.076.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, see other Sec. 161.076.Sec. 161.076. INFORMAL CAREGIVER SERVICES. (a) In this section:(1) "Area agency on aging" has the meaning assigned by Section 161.075.(2) "Local entity" means an area agency on aging or other entity that provides services and support for older or disabled persons and their caregivers.(b) The department shall coordinate with area agencies on aging and, to the extent considered feasible by the department, may coordinate with other local entities to coordinate public awareness outreach efforts regarding the role of informal caregivers in long-term care situations, including efforts to raise awareness of support services available in this state for informal caregivers.(c) The department shall perform the following duties to assist a local entity with outreach efforts under this section:(1) expand an existing department website to provide a link through which a local entity may post and access best practices information regarding informal caregiver support; and(2) create a document template that a local entity may adapt as necessary to reflect resources available to informal caregivers in the area supported by the entity.(d) The department shall create or modify a form to be included in the functional eligibility determination process for long-term care benefits for older persons under the Medicaid program and, to the extent considered feasible by the department, may include a form in systems for other long-term care support services. The department shall use the form to identify informal caregivers for the purpose of enabling the department to refer the caregivers to available support services. The form may be based on an existing form, may include optional questions for an informal caregiver, or may include questions from similar forms used in other states.(e) The department shall coordinate with area agencies on aging and, to the extent considered feasible by the department, may coordinate with other local entities to develop and implement a protocol to evaluate the needs of certain informal caregivers. The protocol must:(1) provide guidance on the type of caregivers who should receive an assessment; and(2) include the use of a standardized assessment tool that may be based on similar tools used in other states, including the Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral process.(f) The department shall require area agencies on aging and, to the extent considered feasible by the department, other local entities to use the protocol and assessment tool under Subsection (e) and report the data gathered from the assessment tool to the department.(g) The department shall analyze the data reported under Subsection (f) and collected from the form under Subsection (d) and shall submit a report not later than December 1 of each even-numbered year to the governor and the Legislative Budget Board that summarizes the data analysis.(g-1) Notwithstanding Subsection (g), the department shall submit the initial report required by that subsection not later than December 1, 2012. This subsection expires January 1, 2013.(h) The department shall use the data analyzed under Subsection (g) to:(1) evaluate the needs of assessed informal caregivers;(2) measure the effectiveness of certain informal caregiver support interventions;(3) improve existing programs;(4) develop new services as necessary to sustain informal caregivers; and(5) determine the effect of informal caregiving on employment and employers.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 726, Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 759, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.077.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 904, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.077.Sec. 161.077. INVESTIGATION DATABASE. (a) The department, in consultation with the Department of Family and Protective Services, shall develop and maintain an electronic database to collect and analyze information regarding the investigation and prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of individuals with mental retardation who reside in a publicly or privately operated intermediate care facility for persons with mental retardation or in a group home, other than a foster home, at which a Home and Community-based Services (HCS) provider provides services and the results of regulatory investigations or surveys performed by the department regarding those facilities or providers.(b) The information collected in the database regarding investigations must be detailed, be easily retrievable, and include information relating to abuse, neglect, and exploitation investigations performed by either department and regulatory investigations performed by the department that are capable of being sorted by home, provider, and facility.(c) The database must facilitate the entry of required information and the sharing of information between the department and the Department of Family and Protective Services. At a minimum, the database must include the following information regarding investigations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation:(1) the number of allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation received relating to a facility or group home, other than a foster home; and(2) the number of allegations relating to a facility or group home, other than a foster home, substantiated through an investigation.(d) Each allegation involving a unique individual in a facility or group home, other than a foster home, is considered a separate allegation for purposes of Subsection (c).(e) The department shall ensure that information related to findings concerning failure to comply with regulatory standards directly related to the prevention of abuse, neglect, or exploitation in a facility or group home, other than a foster home, is collected and stored in the database and may be disaggregated by home, provider, and facility.(f) The department and the Department of Family and Protective Services may not release or distribute information in the database in a form that contains personally identifiable information related to an individual in a facility or group home or to a victim of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, eff. June 11, 2009.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 759, Sec. 1For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, see other Sec. 161.077.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 904, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.077.Sec. 161.077. LONG-TERM CARE MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS. (a) In this section, "Section 1915(c) waiver program" has the meaning assigned by Section 531.001, Government Code.(b) The department, in consultation with the commission, shall streamline the administration of and delivery of services through Section 1915(c) waiver programs. In implementing this subsection, the department, subject to Subsection (c), may consider implementing the following streamlining initiatives:(1) reducing the number of forms used in administering the programs;(2) revising program provider manuals and training curricula;(3) consolidating service authorization systems;(4) eliminating any physician signature requirements the department considers unnecessary;(5) standardizing individual service plan processes across the programs; and(6) any other initiatives that will increase efficiencies in the programs.(c) The department shall ensure that actions taken under this section do not conflict with any requirements of the commission under Section 531.0218, Government Code.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 759, Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

Text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 904, Sec. 1For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 284, Sec. 37, see other Sec. 161.077.For text of section as added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 759, Sec. 1, see other Sec. 161.077.Sec. 161.077. CONTRACTS FOR SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES. (a) A person that provides disability services may contract with a state school or state center for the school or center to provide services and resources to support individuals with developmental disabilities, including individuals with dual diagnosis disorders.(b) Notwithstanding any other law, a state school or state center may provide nonresidential services to support an individual if:(1) the individual:(A) is receiving services in a program funded by the department;(B) meets the eligibility criteria for the intermediate care facility for persons with mental retardation program; and(C) resides in the area in which the state school or state center is located; and(2) the provision of services to the individual does not interfere with the provision of services to a resident of the state school or state center.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 904, Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

SUBCHAPTER E. GUARDIANSHIP SERVICESSec. 161.101. GUARDIANSHIP SERVICES. (a) The department shall file an application under Section 682 or 875, Texas Probate Code, to be appointed guardian of the person or estate, or both, of a minor referred to the department under Section 48.209(a)(1) for guardianship services if the department determines:(1) that the minor, because of a mental or physical condition, will be substantially unable to provide for the minor's own food, clothing, or shelter, to care for the minor's own physical health, or to manage the individual's own financial affairs when the minor becomes an adult; and(2) that a less restrictive alternative to guardianship is not available for the minor.(b) The department shall conduct a thorough assessment of the conditions and circumstances of an elderly or disabled person referred to the department under Section 48.209(a)(2) for guardianship services to determine whether a guardianship is appropriate for the individual or whether a less restrictive alternative is available for the individual. In determining whether a guardianship is appropriate, the department may consider the resources and funds available to meet the needs of the elderly or disabled person. The executive commissioner shall adopt rules for the administration of this subsection.(c) Subject to Subsection (c-1), if after conducting an assessment of an elderly or disabled person under Subsection (b) the department determines that:(1) guardianship is appropriate for the elderly or disabled person, the department shall:(A) file an application under Section 682 or 875, Texas Probate Code, to be appointed guardian of the person or estate, or both, of the individual; or(B) if the department determines that an alternative person or program described by Section 161.102 is available to serve as guardian, refer the individual to that person or program as provided by that section; or(2) a less restrictive alternative to guardianship is available for the elderly or disabled person, the department shall pursue the less restrictive alternative instead of taking an action described by Subdivision (1).(c-1) Not later than the 70th day after the date the department receives a referral under Section 48.209(a)(2) for guardianship services, the department shall make the determination required by Subsection (c) and, if the department determines that guardianship is appropriate and that the department should serve as guardian, file the application to be appointed guardian under Section 682 or 875, Texas Probate Code. If the department determines that an alternative person or program described by Section 161.102 is available to serve as guardian, the department shall refer the elderly or disabled person to that person or program in a manner that would allow the person or program sufficient time to file, not later than the 70th day after the date the department received the referral, an application to be appointed guardian.(c-2) With the approval of the Department of Family and Protective Services, the department may extend, by not more than 30 days, a period prescribed by Subsection (c-1) if the extension is:(1) made in good faith, including any extension for a person or program described by Section 161.102 that intends to file an application to be appointed guardian; and(2) in the best interest of the elderly or disabled person.(d) The department may not be required by a court to file an application for guardianship, and except as provided by Subsection (f) and Section 695(c), Texas Probate Code, the department may not be appointed as permanent guardian for any individual unless the department files an application to serve or otherwise agrees to serve as the individual's guardian of the person or estate, or both.(e) A guardianship created for an individual as a result of an application for guardianship filed under Subsection (a) may not take effect before the individual's 18th birthday.(f) On appointment by a probate court under Section 695(c), Texas Probate Code, the department shall serve as the successor guardian of the person or estate, or both, of a ward described by that section.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.Amended by: Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 726, Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 935, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.102. REFERRAL TO GUARDIANSHIP PROGRAM, COURT, OR OTHER PERSON. (a) If the department becomes aware of a guardianship program, private professional guardian, or other person willing and able to provide the guardianship services that would otherwise be provided by the department to an individual referred to the department by the Department of Family and Protective Services under Section 48.209, the department shall refer the individual to that person or program for guardianship services.(b) If requested by a court, the department shall notify the court of any referral made to the department by the Department of Family and Protective Services relating to any individual who is domiciled or found in a county where the requesting court has probate jurisdiction and who may be appropriate for a court-initiated guardianship proceeding under Section 683, Texas Probate Code. In making a referral under this subsection and if requested by the court, the department shall, to the extent allowed by law, provide the court with all relevant information in the department's records relating to the individual. The court, as part of this process, may not require the department to:(1) perform the duties of a guardian ad litem or court investigator as prescribed by Section 683, Texas Probate Code; or(2) gather additional information not contained in the department's records.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.103. CONTRACT FOR GUARDIANSHIP SERVICES. If appropriate, the department may contract with a political subdivision of this state, a guardianship program as defined by Section 601, Texas Probate Code, a private agency, or another state agency for the provision of guardianship services under this section.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.104. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM. The department shall develop and implement a quality assurance program for guardianship services provided by or on behalf of the department. If the department enters into a contract with a political subdivision, guardianship program, private agency, or other state agency under Section 161.103, the department shall establish a monitoring system as part of the quality assurance program to ensure the quality of guardianship services for which the department contracts under that section.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.105. OATH. A representative of the department shall take the oath required by the Texas Probate Code on behalf of the department if the department is appointed guardian of the person or estate, or both, of a ward under Chapter XIII of that code.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.106. GUARDIANSHIP POWERS AND DUTIES. In serving as guardian of the person or estate, or both, for an incapacitated individual, the department has all the powers granted and duties prescribed to a guardian under Chapter XIII, Texas Probate Code, or any other applicable law.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.107. EXEMPTION FROM GUARDIANSHIP BONDS, CERTAIN COSTS, FEES, AND EXPENSES. (a) The department or a political subdivision of this state or state agency with which the department contracts under Section 161.103 is not required to post a bond or pay any cost or fee associated with a bond otherwise required by the Texas Probate Code in guardianship matters.(b) The department is not required to pay any cost or fee otherwise imposed for court proceedings or other services, including:(1) a filing fee or fee for issuance of service of process imposed by Section 51.317, 51.318(b)(2), or 51.319, Government Code;(2) a court reporter fee imposed by Section 51.601, Government Code;(3) a judicial fund fee imposed by Section 51.702, Government Code;(4) a judge's fee imposed by Section 25.0008 or 25.0029, Government Code;(5) a cost or security fee imposed by Section 12 or 622, Texas Probate Code; or(6) a fee imposed by a county officer under Section 118.011 or 118.052, Local Government Code.(c) The department may not be required to pay fees associated with the appointment of a guardian ad litem or attorney ad litem.(d) A political subdivision of this state or state agency with which the department contracts under Section 161.103 is not required to pay any cost or fee otherwise required by the Texas Probate Code.(e) If the department is appointed guardian, the department is not liable for funding services provided to the department's ward, including long-term care or burial expenses.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.108. SUCCESSOR GUARDIAN. The department shall review each of the department's pending guardianship cases at least annually to determine whether a more suitable person, including a guardianship program or private professional guardian, is willing and able to serve as successor guardian for a ward of the department. If the department becomes aware of any person's willingness and ability to serve as successor guardian, the department shall notify the court in which the guardianship is pending as required by Section 695A, Texas Probate Code.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.109. ACCESS TO RECORDS OR DOCUMENTS. (a) The department shall have access to all of the records and documents concerning an individual referred for guardianship services under this subchapter that are necessary to the performance of the department's duties under this subchapter, including client-identifying information and medical, psychological, educational, or residential information.(b) The department is exempt from the payment of a fee otherwise required or authorized by law to obtain a medical record, including a mental health record, from a hospital or health care provider if the request for a record is made in the course of an assessment for guardianship services conducted by the department.(c) If the department cannot obtain access to a record or document that is necessary to properly perform a duty under this subchapter, the department may petition the probate court or the statutory or constitutional court having probate jurisdiction for access to the record or document.(d) The court with probate jurisdiction shall, on good cause shown, order the person or entity who denied access to a record or document to allow the department to have access to the record or document under the terms and conditions prescribed by the court.(e) A person or entity is entitled to notice of and a hearing on the department's petition for access as described by this section.(f) Access to, or disclosure of, a confidential record or other confidential information under this section does not constitute a waiver of confidentiality for other purposes or as to other persons.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.110. LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF DEPARTMENT. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), (c), or (f), the prosecuting attorney representing the state in criminal cases in the county court shall represent the department in any proceeding under this subchapter unless the representation would be a conflict of interest.(b) If the attorney representing the state in criminal cases in the county court is unable to represent the department in an action under this subchapter because of a conflict of interest, the attorney general shall represent the department in the action.(c) If the attorney general is unable to represent the department in an action under this subchapter, the attorney general shall deputize an attorney who has contracted with the department under Subsection (d) or an attorney employed by the department under Subsection (e) to represent the department in the action.(d) Subject to the approval of the attorney general, the department may contract with a private attorney to represent the department in an action under this subchapter.(e) The department may employ attorneys to represent the department in an action under this subchapter.(f) In a county having a population of more than 2.8 million, the prosecuting attorney representing the state in civil cases in the county court shall represent the department in any proceeding under this subchapter unless the representation would be a conflict of interest. If such attorney is unable to represent the department in an action under this subchapter because of a conflict of interest, the attorney general shall represent the department in the action.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.111. CONFIDENTIALITY AND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION. (a) All files, reports, records, communications, or working papers used or developed by the department in the performance of duties relating to the assessment for or the provision of guardianship services to an individual referred for guardianship services under this subchapter are confidential and not subject to disclosure under Chapter 552, Government Code.(b) Confidential information may be disclosed only for a purpose consistent with this subchapter, as required by other state or federal law, or as necessary to enable the department to exercise its powers and duties as guardian of the person or estate, or both, of an individual.(c) A court may order disclosure of confidential information only if:(1) a motion is filed with the court requesting release of the information and a hearing on that request;(2) notice of the hearing is served on the department and each interested party; and(3) the court determines after the hearing and an in camera review of the information that disclosure is essential to the administration of justice and will not endanger the life or safety of any individual who:(A) is being assessed by the department for guardianship services under this subchapter;(B) is a ward of the department; or(C) provides services to a ward of the department.(d) The department shall establish a policy and procedures for the exchange of information with another state agency or governmental entity, including a court, with a local guardianship program to which an individual is referred for services, or with any other entity who provides services to a ward of the department, as necessary for the department, state agency, governmental entity, or other entity to properly execute its respective duties and responsibilities to provide guardianship services or other needed services to meet the needs of the ward under this subchapter or other law. An exchange of information under this subsection does not constitute a release for purposes of waiving the confidentiality of the information exchanged.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.112. INDEMNIFICATION FOR LEGAL EXPENSES. If a present or former employee of the department who was involved in activities related to the provision of guardianship services under this subchapter is criminally prosecuted for conduct related to the person's misfeasance or nonfeasance in the course and scope of the person's employment and is found not guilty after a trial or appeal or if the complaint or indictment is dismissed without a plea of guilty or nolo contendere being entered, the department may indemnify the person or the person's estate for the reasonable attorney's fees incurred in defense of the prosecution up to a maximum of $10,000.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

Sec. 161.113. IMMUNITY. (a) In this section, "volunteer" means a person who:(1) renders services for or on behalf of the department under the supervision of a department employee; and(2) does not receive compensation that exceeds the authorized expenses the person incurs in performing those services.(b) A department employee or an authorized volunteer who performs a department duty or responsibility under this subchapter is immune from civil or criminal liability for any act or omission that relates to the duty or responsibility if the person acted in good faith and within the scope of the person's authority.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268, Sec. 3.04, eff. September 1, 2005.

SUBCHAPTER F. FALL PREVENTION AWARENESSSubchapter F, consisting of Secs. 161.151 to 161.153, was added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 95, Sec. 1.For another Subchapter F, consisting of Secs. 161.151 to 161.156, added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, see Sec. 161.151 et seq., post.Sec. 161.151. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS. The legislature finds that:(1) in 2008, 1.14 million older Texans were expected to sustain falls;(2) the risk factors associated with falling increase with age;(3) approximately 20 to 30 percent of older adults who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries, resulting in almost 80,000 hospitalizations annually and constituting 40 percent of all nursing home placements;(4) according to the Centers for Disease Control of the United States Public Health Service, the total direct cost of all fall-related injuries in 2000 for people 65 years of age and older exceeded $19 billion nationwide; and(5) research shows that a well-designed fall prevention program that includes risk factor assessments, a focused physical activity program, and improvement of the home environment can reduce the incidence of falls by 30 to 50 percent.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 95, Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2009.

Sec. 161.152. FALL PREVENTION AWARENESS WEEK. The week that begins on the first Sunday of each year that falls after the date of the autumnal equinox is declared "Fall Prevention Awareness Week."

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 95, Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2009.

Sec. 161.153. FALL PREVENTION POLICY. The department may develop recommendations to:(1) raise public awareness about fall prevention;(2) educate older adults and individuals who provide care to older adults about best practices to reduce the incidence and risk of falls among older adults;(3) encourage state and local governments and the private sector to promote policies and programs that help reduce the incidence and risk of falls among older adults;(4) encourage area agencies on aging to include fall prevention education in their services;(5) develop a system for reporting falls to improve available information on falls; and(6) incorporate fall prevention guidelines into state and local planning documents that affect housing, transportation, parks, recreational facilities, and other public facilities.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 95, Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 2009.

SUBCHAPTER F. LIFESPAN RESPITE SERVICES PROGRAMSubchapter F, consisting of Secs. 161.151 to 161.156, was added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1.For another Subchapter F, consisting of Secs. 161.151 to 161.153, added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 95, Sec. 1, see Sec. 161.151 et seq., post.Sec. 161.151. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:(1) "Chronic serious health condition" means a health condition that:(A) requires periodic treatment by a health care provider, including a nurse as authorized by Chapter 301, Occupations Code, or a physician assistant as authorized by Chapter 204, Occupations Code; and(B) continues over an extended period, including recurring episodes of a single underlying health condition such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis.(2) "Respite services" means support services, including in-home services or adult day-care services, that are provided for the purpose of temporarily giving relief to a primary caregiver who provides care to an individual with a chronic serious health condition or disability.(3) "Respite services coordinator" means a community-based organization or local governmental entity with which the department enters into a contract to facilitate access to respite services under Section 161.154.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.152. LIFESPAN RESPITE SERVICES PROGRAM.The department shall implement the lifespan respite services program to promote the provision of respite services through contracts with eligible community-based organizations or local governmental entities.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.153. ELIGIBILITY. (a) A person is eligible to participate in the program if the person:(1) is the primary caregiver for a person who:(A) is related to the caregiver within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity;(B) has a chronic serious health condition or disability;(C) requires assistance with one or more activities of daily living; and(D) is not eligible for or not able to participate in any other existing program that provides respite services; and(2) meets criteria specified in rules adopted by the executive commissioner.(b) The executive commissioner may not specify criteria that limit a person's eligibility based on the type of chronic serious health condition or disability of the person receiving care.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.154. RESPITE SERVICES CONTRACTS. (a) The department shall contract with at least three eligible community-based organizations or local governmental entities selected by the department to:(1) provide respite services; and(2) facilitate access to respite services.(b) The department may award a contract under this section only after issuing a request for proposals for the contract.(c) A community-based organization or local governmental entity is eligible to contract under this section only if the organization or entity has experience in and an existing procedure for:(1) coordinating support services for multiple groups of persons who need support services, including persons with a physical or intellectual disability and elderly persons;(2) connecting caregivers with respite services providers;(3) maintaining and providing information regarding available respite services; and(4) conducting public awareness activities regarding available respite services.(d) The department shall include in each contract with a respite services coordinator provisions requiring the coordinator to:(1) subject to the availability of money, provide vouchers for respite services to caregivers participating in the program who are not eligible for respite services provided through other programs; and(2) connect caregivers participating in the program with available respite services.(e) The department shall provide each community-based organization or local governmental entity with which the department contracts under this subchapter with:(1) technical assistance; and(2) policy and program development support.(f) The department shall monitor a contractor's performance under a contract entered into under this subchapter using clearly defined and measurable performance objectives.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.155. RESPITE SERVICES COORDINATOR FUNCTIONS. A respite services coordinator under contract with the department shall:(1) maintain information regarding respite services providers;(2) build partnerships with respite services providers; and(3) implement public awareness activities regarding respite services.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.156. RULES. The executive commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to implement this subchapter.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 330, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

SUBCHAPTER G. LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON AGINGSec. 161.251. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:(1) "Committee" means the Legislative Committee on Aging.(2) "Health and human services agency" has the meaning assigned by Section 531.001, Government Code.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.252. LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON AGING ESTABLISHED. The Legislative Committee on Aging is established to:(1) study issues relating to the aging population of Texas, including issues related to the health care, income, transportation, housing, education, and employment needs of that population; and(2) make recommendations to address those issues.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.253. COMPOSITION OF COMMITTEE; PRESIDING OFFICER. (a) The committee is composed of:(1) two members of the senate appointed by the lieutenant governor;(2) two members of the house of representatives appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives; and(3) two public members appointed by the governor.(b) A member of the committee serves at the pleasure of the appointing official.(c) The lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint the presiding officer of the committee on an alternating basis. The presiding officer shall serve a two-year term expiring February 1 of each odd-numbered year.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.254. COMMITTEE POWERS AND DUTIES. (a) The committee shall:(1) meet at least biannually at the call of the presiding officer;(2) conduct a continuing study of issues relating to the aging population, including issues that are affected by the demographic and geographic diversity of the aging population in this state;(3) analyze the availability of, and unmet needs for, state and local services for the aging population; and(4) request reports and other information relating to the aging population as necessary from the executive commissioner, the department, other health and human services agencies, the attorney general, and any other state agency.(b) The executive commissioner, the department, other health and human services agencies, the attorney general, and any other applicable state agency shall fully cooperate with the committee in performing the committee's duties under this subchapter.(c) The committee may issue process, in accordance with Section 301.024, Government Code, to compel attendance of witnesses and the production of books, records, documents, and instruments required by the committee.(d) The committee shall use the existing staff resources of the senate and the house of representatives to assist the committee in performing its duties under this section.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.255. REPORT. (a) The committee shall report to the standing committees of the senate and the house of representatives having jurisdiction of issues related to the needs of the aging population not later than November 15 of each even-numbered year.(b) The report must include:(1) a summary of the hearings and studies conducted by the committee during the preceding year;(2) a statement of findings based on the hearings and studies conducted by the committee; and(3) recommendations, if any, for legislation.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

SUBCHAPTER H. CERTAIN INITIATIVES RELATING TO AGINGSec. 161.301. DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "fund" means the Chris Kyker Endowment for Seniors Fund established under this subchapter.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.302. CONTRACT TO PROVIDE OUTREACH AND INPUT RELATING TO AGING POPULATION. (a) The executive commissioner may contract with an entity to:(1) conduct local forums throughout this state to solicit input on and discuss policies regarding aging-related issues, including issues that are affected by the demographic and geographic diversity of the aging population in this state;(2) provide analysis, education, and research services with respect to aging-related issues; and(3) identify problems encountered by the aging population in this state and develop and recommend to the executive commissioner and the legislature solutions to those problems.(b) If a contract entered into under this section includes a provision that allows a person performing duties under the contract on behalf of the entity to receive a per diem for days spent performing those duties and to be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in performing those duties, the per diem and reimbursement for travel expenses incurred must be paid at the same rate set in the General Appropriations Act for state employees.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.303. ESTABLISHMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF FUND. (a) The Chris Kyker Endowment for Seniors Fund is a special fund outside the state treasury held by the comptroller.(b) The comptroller shall deposit in the fund:(1) money appropriated to the fund;(2) grants, gifts, and donations from any other public or private source; and(3) income and interest, including depository interest, as provided by Subsection (f).(c) The comptroller shall administer and manage the assets of the fund in accordance with this section and the rules adopted by the executive commissioner under Section 161.304(c). In managing the assets of the fund, the comptroller may acquire, exchange, sell, supervise, manage, or retain, through procedures and subject to restrictions the comptroller considers appropriate, any kind of investment that a prudent investor, exercising reasonable care, skill, and caution, would acquire or retain in light of the purposes, terms, distribution requirements, and other circumstances of the fund then prevailing, taking into consideration the investment of all the assets of the fund rather than a single investment.(d) The expenses of managing fund investments shall be paid from the fund.(e) On request, the comptroller shall fully disclose all details concerning the investments of the fund.(f) Interest earned on the fund shall be credited to the fund.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Sec. 161.304. USE OF FUND. (a) The following may be used only to fund a contract entered into under Section 161.302:(1) contributions to the fund described by Section 161.303(b)(2); and(2) income and interest earned on money in the fund described by Section 161.303(b)(3).(b) Except as provided by Subsection (a), money in the fund may not be used for any purpose.(c) The executive commissioner may adopt rules regarding distribution of money in the fund in accordance with this section.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 318, Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.