ISSUE OFJuly 12, 1991"
Volume 16, Number 52, July 12, 1991
Pages 3799-3913
Emergency Sections
Texas Housing Agency
3813-Low Income Rental Housing Tax Credit
State Property Tax Board
3821-Truth in Taxation Requirements
Proposed Sections
Texas Education Agency
3823-Vocational and Applied Technology Education
3823-Foundation School Program
3824-Education Personnel Development
3825-Proprietary Schools and Veterans Education
Texas Water Development Board
3826-Colonia Plumbing Loan Program
State Property Tax Board
3829-Truth in Taxation Requirements
Texas Youth Commission
3830-General Provisions
3831-Admission and Placement
3843-Treatment
3847-Discipline and Control
Texas Department of Human Services
3860-Community Care for Aged and Disabled
Withdrawn Sections
Texas Workers' Compensation Commission
3863-Medical Benefits
3863-Medical Benefits-Guidelines for Medical Services,
Charges, and Payments
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
3863-Parks
Texas Water Development Board
3863-Colonia Plumbing Loan Program
Adopted Sections
Texas Education Agency
3865-Curriculum
3865-Teacher Certification
3865-Hearings and Appeals
Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
3866-Quality Review
State Board of Insurance
3867-Title Insurance
Texas Workers' Compensation Commission
3868-Guidelines for Medical Services, Charges, and Payments
Texas County and District Retirement System
3869-Miscellaneous Rules
Texas Department of Human Services
3869-Income Assistance Services
3871-Food Distribution and Processing
3871-Purchased Health Services
Texas Commission on Human Rights
3872-Administrative Review
Open Meetings
3875-Texas Department of Agriculture
3876-State Aircraft Pooling Board
3876-Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
3876-Texas Animal Health Commission
3876-Texas Department of Aviation
3876-State Bar of Texas
3877-Bond Review Board
3877-Texas Department of Criminal Justice
3877-Texas State Board of Examiners of Dietitians
3877-Texas Council on Disabilities
3878-Educational Economic Policy Center
3878-Texas Education Agency
3879-Texas Employment Commission
3879-Commission on Fire Protection
3879-Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division
Texas Crime Stoppers Advisory Council
3879-Texas Department of Health
3879-Texas Health and Human Services Coordinating Council
3880-Texas Department of Human Services
3880-State Board of Insurance
3881-Texas State Library and Archives Commission
3881-Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
3881-Texas State Board of Medical Examiners
3881-Texas Council on Offenders with Mental Impairments
3881-Texas Motor Vehicle Commission
3881-Board of Nurse Examiners
3882-Texas Board of Licensure for Nursing Home Administrators
3882-Texas Board of Private Investigators and Private
Security Agencies
3882-State Property Tax Board
3882-Public Utility Commission of Texas
3883-Texas Rehabilitation Commission
3883-House of Representatives
3883-School Land Board
3883-State Securities Board
3884-Board for Lease of State-owned Lands
3884-Teacher Retirement System of Texas
3884-Texas A&M University System Board of Regents
3885-Texas Association of Regional Councils
3885-Texas Southern University
3885-Texas Turnpike Authority
3885-University of Houston
3886-University of Texas Health Science Center at San
Antonio
3886-Texas Water Commission
3887-Texas Workers' Compensation Commission
3887-Texas Workers' Compensation Insurance Facility
3887-Regional Meetings
In Addition
State Banking Board
3891-Notice of Hearing
3891-Notice of Hearing Cancellation
Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner
3891-Notice of Rate Bracket Adjustments
3891-Notice of Rate Ceilings
Governor's Energy Office
3892-Consultant Proposal Request
Texas Department of Health
3894-Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Programs
3895-Licensing Actions for Radioactive Materials
3899-Notice of Intent to Revoke Certificates of Registration
3900-Notice of Intent to Revoke Radioactive Material
Licenses
3900-Permit Applications for Municipal Solid Waste Site
Notice of Filing
3907-Public Hearing on Proposed Rules to Implement Public
Law 100-476
Texas Department of Human Services
3907-Notice of Public Hearing
State Board of Insurance
3907-Company Licensing
Lamar University System
3907-Consultant Proposal Request
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
3908-Notice of Public Hearing to Revoke License
Public Utility Commission of Texas
3908-Notice of Intent to File Pursuant to PUC Substantive
Rule 23.27
State Purchasing and General Service Commission
3909-Summary of Other State Bidding Preference Laws
The Texas A&M University System
3911-Public Notice
Texas Water Commission
3912-Enforcement Order
3912-Notice of Application of Waste Disposal Permit
Texas Worker's Compensation Commission
3913-Discount Rate; Interest Rate
CONTENTS CONTINUED INSIDE
ISSUE OFJuly 12, 1991"
TAC Titles Affected
TAC Titles Affected-July
The following is a list of the administrative rules that have
been published this month.
TITLE 1. ADMINSTRATION
Part V. State Purchasing
and General Services Commission
1 TAC sec.113.10--3665
1 TAC sec.113.13--3691
1 TAC sec.113.17--3691
1 TAC sec.sec.113.21, 113.23, 113.25--3692
1 TAC sec.125.47--3693
1 TAC sec.sec.125.61, 125.63, 125.65, 125.67--3693
Part XIII. Texas Incentive
and Productivity Commission
1 TAC sec.sec.275.1, 275.3, 275.5, 275.7, 275.9, 275.11,
275.13, 275.15, 275.17, 275.19, 275.21--3665
TITLE 10. COMMUNNITY DEVELOPMENT
Part IV. Texas Housing
Agency
10 TAC sec.sec.149.1-149.13--3813
TITLE 16. ECONOMIC REGULATION
Part I. Railroad Commission
of Texas
16 TAC sec.3.1--3767
16 TAC sec.3.14--3765
16 TAC sec.5.181--3667
16 TAC sec.11.221--3675
16 TAC sec.7.1--3668
16 TAC sec.7.2--3668
16 TAC sec.7.3--3669
16 TAC sec.7.4--3671
16 TAC sec.7.5--3671
16 TAC sec.7.6--3671
16 TAC sec.7.7--3672
16 TAC sec.7.8--3673
16 TAC sec.7.9--3673
16 TAC sec.7.10--3674
16 TAC sec.sec.7.10, 1.15, 7.20, 2.22, 7.25, 7.27, 7.35
--3673
16 TAC sec.7.11--3674
16 TAC sec.7.48--3675
16 TAC sec.11.221--3675
TITLE 19. EDUCATION
Part II. Texas Education
Agency
19 TAC sec.75.4--3865
19 TAC sec.78.1--3823
19 TAC sec.105.71--3823
19 TAC sec.141.431--3865
19 TAC sec.141.433--3865
19 TAC sec.149.21--3824
19 TAC sec.157.98--3865
19 TAC sec.185.15--3825
TITLE 22. EXAMINING BOARDS
Part IX. Texas State
Board of Medical Examiners
22 TAC sec.sec.176.1-176.3--3759
22 TAC sec.188.1, 188.2--3765
22 TAC sec.193.7--3767
Part XXII. Texas State
Board of Public Accountancy
22 TAC sec.527.1--3866
22 TAC sec.527.2--3866
22 TAC sec.527.3--3866
22 TAC sec.527.4--3866
22 TAC sec.527.5--3866
22 TAC sec.527.6--3866
22 TAC sec.527.7--3867
TITLE 25. HEALTH SERVICES
Part II. Texas Department
of Mental Health and
Mental Retardation
25 TAC sec.401.53--3760
25 TAC sec.sec.405.1-405.18--3697
25 TAC sec.sec.410.101-410.122--3704
Part V. Center for
Rural Health Initiatives
25 TAC sec.sec.500.21-500.42--3659, 3675
TITLE 28. INSURANCE
Part I. State Board
of Insurance
28 TAC sec.9.11--3867
Part II. Texas Workers'
Compensation Commission
28 TAC sec.134.2--3868
28 TAC sec.134.4--3869
28 TAC sec.42.110--3863
28 TAC sec.133.3--3708
28 TAC sec.134.400--3863
TITLE 31. NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION
Part II. Texas Parks
and Wildlife Department
31 TAC sec.59.2, sec.59.3--3863
Part III. Texas Air
Control Board
31 TAC sec.101.27--3761
31 TAC sec.115.10--3676, 3708
31 TAC sec.sec.115.112, 115.114, 115.116, 115.119--3713
31 TAC sec.sec.115.122, 115.126, 115.129--3676, 3713
31 TAC sec.115.126, sec.115.129--3676
31 TAC sec.sec.115.132, 115.136, 115.139--3718
31 TAC sec.115.136, sec.115.139--3677
31 TAC sec.sec.115.212, 115.215, 115.216, 115.219--3719
31 TAC sec.115.222, sec.115.229--3720
31 TAC sec.115.224, sec.115.229--3678
31 TAC sec.115.239--3721
31 TAC sec.sec.115.315, 115.316, 115.319--3721
31 TAC sec.115.317--3722
31 TAC sec.sec.115.322, 115.324, 115.325, 115.327, 115.329
--3722
31 TAC sec.sec.115.332, 115.334, 115.335, 115.337, 115.339
--3723
31 TAC sec.sec.115.342, 115.344, 115.345, 115.347, 115.349
--3724
31 TAC sec.115.417, sec.115.419--3725
31 TAC sec.sec.115.421-115.427, 115.429--3726
31 TAC sec.sec.115.422, 115.423, 115.425, 115.426, 115.429
--3678
31 TAC sec.sec.115.432, 115.435, 115.436, 115.437, 115.439
--3728
31 TAC sec.sec.115.435, 115.436, 115.439--3679
31 TAC sec.115.512, sec.115.519--3729
31 TAC sec.sec.115.532, 115.536, 115.537, 115.539--3729
31 TAC sec.116.11--3680
Part IX. Texas Water
Commission
31 TAC sec.331.481, sec.334.482--3689
31 TAC sec.335.112--3730
31 TAC sec.335.431--3731
Part X. Texas Water
Development Board
31 TAC sec.sec.363.1-363.3--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.1-363.5--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.11-363.15--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.31-363.32--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.31-363.38--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.41-363.43--3769
31 TAC sec.sec.363.51-363.57--3770
31 TAC sec.sec.363.52-363.60--3770
31 TAC sec.363.71--3770
31 TAC sec.363.71, sec.363.72--3770
31 TAC sec.sec.363.81-363.85--3771
31 TAC sec.363.91, sec.363.92--3771
31 TAC sec.sec.363.101-363.108--3771
31 TAC sec.363.111, 363.112--3771
31 TAC sec.sec.363.121-363.126--3771
31 TAC sec.363.141--3771
31 TAC sec.sec.363.161-363.165--3771
31 TAC sec.363.181--3772
31 TAC sec.363.201, sec.363.202--3772
31 TAC sec.sec.363.201-363.208--3772
31 TAC sec.sec.363.221-363.224--3772
31 TAC sec.sec.363.231-363.235--3775
31 TAC sec.363.241, sec.363.242--3775
31 TAC sec.sec.363.251-363.257--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.281-363.283--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.291-363.295--3776
31 TAC sec.363.301, sec.363.302--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.301-363.303--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.311-363.314--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.311-363.321--3776
31 TAC sec.363.321--3776
31 TAC sec.363.331--3776
31 TAC sec.sec.363.331-363.333--3777
31 TAC sec.sec.363.401-363.404--3777
31 TAC sec.sec.363.501-363.508--3777
31 TAC sec.sec.363.601-363.610--3777
31 TAC sec.370.1, sec.370.2--3826, 3863
31 TAC sec.sec.379.21-370.35--3827, 3863
31 TAC sec.sec.370.41-370.43--3828, 3863
31 TAC sec.sec.370.51-370.53--3829, 3863
31 TAC sec.370.61--3829, 3864
TITLE 34. PUBLIC FINANCE
Part I. Comptroller
of Public Accounts
34 TAC sec.3.253--3681
34 TAC sec.3.282--3682
34 TAC sec.3.286--3683
34 TAC sec.3.375--3684
34 TAC sec.3.425--3686
Part IV. Employees Retirement
Systems of Texas
34 TAC sec.81.1, sec.81.7--3777
34 TAC sec.81.7--3765
34 TAC sec.sec.85.3, 85.5, 85.7, 85.9--3779
Part V. Texas County
and District Retirement System
34 TAC sec.107.2--3869
Part VI. Texas Municipal
Retirement System
34 TAC sec.123.1--3779
34 TAC sec.127.3--3779
Part VII. State Property
Tax Board
34 TAC sec.153.2--3821, 3829
TITLE 37. PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
Part III. Texas Youth
Commission
37 TAC sec.sec.81.111, 81.113, 81.118--3830
37 TAC sec.sec.81.114, 81.116, 81.117, 81.120, 81.121
--3830
37 TAC sec.sec.81.401, 81.402, 81.403, 81.404, 81.405,
81.406, 81.407--3830
37 TAC sec.85.1, sec.85.3--3831
37 TAC sec.sec.85.21, 85.23, 85.25, 85.29, 85.35--3833
37 TAC sec.85.23, sec.85.29--3839
37 TAC sec.sec.85.27, 85.31, 85.33, 85.43--3840
37 TAC sec.sec.87.1, 87.3, 87.7, 87.9, 87.21, 87.23
--3843
37 TAC sec.sec.87.7, 87.9, 87.21, 87.23--3843, 3847
37 TAC sec.87.53--3846, 3847
37 TAC sec.87.75--3846, 3847
37 TAC sec.sec.91.1, 91.3, 91.5, 91.7, 91.9, 91.11, 91.13
--3847
37 TAC sec.91.31--
37 TAC sec.sec.91.55, 91.57, 91.59, 91.63, 91.65, 91.69
--3855
37 TAC sec.sec.91.55, 91.57, 91.59, 91.63, 91.65, 91.69,
91.73--3855
37 TAC sec.81.113--3757
TITLE 40. SOCIAL SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE
Part I. Texas Department
of Human Services
40 TAC sec.3.704--3869
40 TAC sec.3.902--3731, 3870
40 TAC sec.11.107--3871
40 TAC sec.15.433--3763
40 TAC sec.15.455, sec.15.465--3763
40 TAC sec.15.500--3763
40 TAC sec.sec.29.201-29.207--3871
40 TAC sec.29.2401--3872
40 TAC sec.48.2203, sec.48.2205--3731
40 TAC sec.sec.48.2801-48.2810--3860
40 TAC sec.48.2904, sec.48.2924--3862
40 TAC sec.48.2906, sec.48.2918--3764
40 TAC sec.48.2908--3764
40 TAC sec.79.1603-79.1605, 79.1607, 79.1608, 79.1610, 79.1612,
79.1614--3779
40 TAC sec.sec.79.1701, 79.1705, 79.1714, 79.1716--3780
40 TAC sec.sec.85.4001, 85.4013, 85.4018--3780
40 TAC sec.85.6016--3780
Part VI. Texas Commission
on Human Rights
40 TAC sec.327.1--3872
Emergency Sections
An agency may adopt a new or amended section or repeal an
existing section on an emergency basis if it determines that
such action is necessary for the public health, safety, or welfare
of this state. The section may become effective immediately upon
filing with the Texas Register, or
on a stated date less than 20 days after filing, for no more
than 120 days. The emergency action is renewable once for no
more than 60 days.
Symbology in amended
emergency sections. New language added to
an existing section is indicated by the use of bold
text. [Brackets] indicate deletion of existing material
within a section.
TITLE 10. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Part IV. Texas Housing Agency
Chapter 149. Low-Income Rental Housing Tax Credit
10 TAC sec.sec.149.1-149.13
The Texas Housing Agency adopts on an emergency basis the
repeal of sec.sec.149. 1-149.13, concerning low-income rental
housing tax credits. The sections are repealed in order to enact
new sections which conform to the requirements of new regualtiosn
enacted under the Internal Revenue Code, sec.42, as amended,
which provides for credit against federal income taxes for owners
of qualified low-income rental housing projects. Emergency repeal
is necesary in order to prevent loss of state allocation authroity
and disruption of the state's low-income rental housing tax credit
program.
The repeals are adopted on an emergency basis under the Texas
Housing Agency Act, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 12691-6, which
provides the Texas Housing Agency with the authrotiy to adopt
rules governing the adminsitration of the agency and its programs;
Executive Order AWR-91-4 (June 17, 1991), which provides the
Texas Housing Agency with the authority to make housing credit
allocations for the State of Texas; and the Low Income Housing
Tax Credit State Allocation Plan approved by the governor, which
defines the procedures for the allocation of housing tax credit
among projects.
sec.149.1. Scope.
sec.149.2. Definitions.
sec.149.3. State Housing
Credit Ceiling.
sec.149.4. Applications; Market
Study; Reservations; Notification;
Commitments; Extensions; Carryover
Allocations; Agreements and Elections;
Extended Commitments.
sec.149.5. Set-Asides, Reservations,
and Preferences.
sec.149.6. Threshold Criteria;
Evaluation Factors; Selection Criteria;
Bonus Points; Final Ranking;
Credit Amount; Tax Exempt
Bond Financed Projects.
sec.149.7. Housing Credit
Allocations.
sec.149.8. Agency Records,
Certain Required Filings.
sec.149.9. Agency Responsbilities.
sec.149.10. Application, Reservation,
and Extension Fees.
sec.149.11. Manner and
Place of Filing Applications.
sec.149.12. Withdrawals, Amendments,
Cancellations.
sec.149.13. Waiver and
Amendment of Rules.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107896
Mario Aguilar
Attorney
Texas Housing Agency
Effective date: July 2, 1991
Expiration date: October 30, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 474-2974
The Texas Housing Agency adopts on an emergency basis new
sec.sec.149.1-149.13, concerning low-income rental housing
tax credits. The new sections provide procedures for the allocation
by the agency of certain low-income housing tax credits available
under federal income tax laws to owners of qualified low-income
rental housing projects. It is necessary to replace on an emergency
basis former rules, which are repealed by simultaneous publication
on an emergency basis, in order to conform the agency's regulations
to new federal and state regulations, to ensure compliance with
applicable federal and state law, and to avoid loss of state
allocation authority and possible disruption of the state's low-income
rental housing tax credit program.
The new sections are adopted on an emergency basis under the
Texas Housing Agency Act, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 12691-6,
which provides the Texas Housing Agency with the authority to
adopt rules governing the administration of the agency and its
programs; Executive Order AWR 91-4 (June 17, 1991), which provides
the Texas Housing Agency with the authority to make housing credit
allocations for the State of Texas; and the Low-Income Housing
Tax Credit State Allocation Plan approved by the governor, which
defines the procedures for the allocation of housing tax credit
among projects.
sec.149.1. Scope.
The rules in this chapter
apply to the allocation
by the Texas Housing
Agency (agency) of certain
low-income rental housing tax
credits authorized by applicable
federal income tax laws.
The Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (the Code),
s42, as amended, provides
for credits against federal
income taxes for owners
of qualified low-income rental
housing projects. That section
provides for the allocation
of the available tax
credit amount by state
housing credit agencies. Pursuant
to Executive Order AWR-91-4
(June 17, 1991), the
Texas Housing Agency was
authorized to make housing
credit allocations for the
State of Texas. As required
by the Code, sec.42(m)(1),
the agency developed a
qualified allocation plan which
is set forth in
s149.6 of this title (relating
to Threshold Criteria; Evaluation
Factors; Selection Criteria; Bonus
Points; Final Ranking; Credit
Amount; Tax Exempt Bond
Financed Projects); such qualified
allocation plan was adopted
by the governor on June
17, 1991. Therefore, the
purpose of the sections
in this chapter is to
establish procedures for applying
for and obtaining an
allocation of the low-income
rental housing tax credit,
along with insuring that
the proper selection criteria,
priorities, and preferences are
followed in making such
allocations. It is a
goal of this agency,
through these sections, to
encourage diversity through broad
geographic allocation of tax
credits within the state.
The sections are intended
to promote maximum utilization
of the available tax
credit amount, consistent with
ensuring that the tax
credits are allocated to
owners of projects that
will serve the agency's
public policy objectives of
assisting in the provision
of decent, safe, and
sanitary housing for persons
and families of low-income
and families of moderate
income.
sec.149.2. Definitions.
The following words and
terms, when used in this
chapter, shall have the
following meanings, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise.
Agency-The Texas
Housing Agency, a public
and official governmental agency
of the State of Texas
created and organized under
the Texas Housing Agency
Act, Texas Civil Statutes,
Article 12691-6, as amended.
Agreement and
election statement-An agreement
between the agency, the
project owner, and all
successors in interest to
the project owner as
to the aggregate housing
credit allocation amount that
will be allocated to
the building or buildings
comprising the project, and
an irrevocable election by
the project owner to
fix the applicable credit
percentage(s) for the project
in the month in which
the agreement is executed.
Applicable fraction
-The fraction used to determine
the qualified basis of
the qualified low-income building,
which is the smaller
of the unit fraction
or the floor space fraction,
as defined more fully
in the Code, sec.42(c)(1).
Applicable percentage
-The percentage used to
determine the amount of
the low-income housing tax
credit, as defined more
fully in the Code,
s42(b).
Application-An application
in the form prescribed
by the agency, including
any required exhibits or
other supporting materials, filed
with the agency by a
project owner requesting a
housing credit allocation.
Board-The board
of directors of the agency.
Building in
default project-A project
where the building(s) is
acquired from an insured
depository institution in default
(as defined in the Federal
Deposit Insurance Act,
s3) or from a receiver
or conservator of such
an institution.
Carryover allocation
-An allocation of current
year tax credit authority
by the agency pursuant
to the provisions of
the Code, sec.42(h) (1)(E).
Carryover allocation
document-A carryover allocation
document issued by the
agency to a project owner
pursuant to sec.149.4(j) of
this title (relating to
Applications; Market Study; Reservations;
Notification; Commitments; Extensions;
Carryover Allocations; Agreements
and Elections; Extended Commitments).
Code-The Internal
Revenue Code of 1986,
as the same may be
amended from time to
time, together with any
applicable regulations, rules,
rulings, revenue procedures, information
statements, or other official
pronouncements issued thereunder
by the United States
Department of the Treasury
or the Internal Revenue
Service relating to the
low-income rental housing tax
credit program authorized by
sec.42 thereof.
Commitment letter
-A commitment letter issued
by the agency to a
project owner pursuant to
sec.149.4(g).
Compliance period
-With respect to a project,
the period of 15 taxable
years beginning with the
first taxable year of
the credit period with
reset to the project,
during which the project
owner is required by
the Code, sec.42, to
maintain the project as
rental property and to
satisfy certain low-income occupancy
requirements, as more fully
defined in the Code,
sec.42(i)(1) .
Credit period-With
respect to a building
within a project, the
period of 10 taxable
years beginning with the
taxable year the building
is placed in service
or, at the election of
the project owner, the
succeeding taxable year, as
more fully defined in
the Code, sec.42(f)(1).
Eligible basis
-With respect to a building
within a project, the
building's eligible basis as
defined in the Code,
sec.42(d).
Extended low-income
housing commitment agreement-An
agreement between the agency,
the project owner, and
all successors in interest
to the project owner
concerning the extended low-income
housing use of buildings
within the project as
provided in the Code,
sec.42(h)(6).
Govermental contribution
-Any form of financial assistance
or insurance made available
by any federal agency
or state or local governmental
unit to a project owner
in connection with a
project, provided that the
amount of such assistance
or insurance equals or
exceeds 5.0% of the total
development cost of the
project, and provided further
that any project financed
under of the Housing
Act of 1949, sec.515,
shall be deemed to have
received a governmental contribution.
Handicapped person
-A person having an impairment
that is expected to be
of long-continued and indefinite
duration, is a substantial
impediment to his or
her ability to live independently,
and is of a nature
that the ability to live
independently could be improved
by a stable residential
situation, as more fully
defined in 24 Code of
Federal Regulations, sec.841.1.
Homeless person
-An individual or family
that lacks a fixed, regular,
and adequate nighttime residence
as more fully defined
in 24 Code of Federal
Regulations, sec.841.1.
Housing credit
allocation-An allocation by
the agency to a project
owner of a low-income
rental housing tax credit
in accordance with sec.149.7
of this title (relating
to Housing Credit Allocations).
Housing credit
allocation amount-With respect
to a building within
a project, the product
of the applicable percentage
and the qualified basis
specified by the agency
in making a housing credit
allocation to the project
owner.
Local tax-exempt
organization-A project owner
which is described in
the Code, sec.501(c)(3) or
(4), and which has a
scope of business operation
limited to the State
of Texas or the governmental
unit wherein the project
will be situated.
Project-A low-income
rental housing project the
owner of which represents
to be a qualified low-income
housing project within the
meaning of the Code,
sec.42(g).
Project owner-Any
individual, joint venture, partnership,
corporation, cooperative, trust,
or other person or entity
that owns a project or
expects to acquire a
project pursuant to a
purchase contract satisfactory
to the agency.
Qualified allocation
plan-An allocation plan which
sets forth the selection
criteria, priorities, and preferences
provided in the Code,
sec.42(m)(1).
Qualified basis
-With respect to a building
within a project, the
building's eligible basis multiplied
by the applicable fraction,
as more fully defined
in the Code, sec.42(c).
Qualified nonprofit
organization-An organization that
is described in the Code,
sec.501(c)(3) or (4), that
is exempt from federal
income taxation under the
Code, sec.501(a), and includes
as one of its exempt
purposes the fostering of
low-income housing, as more
fully defined in the
Code, sec.42(h) (5)(C), and
Temporary Treasury Regulation,
sec.1.42-1T(c)(5)(ii).
Qualified nonprofit
project-A project with respect
to which a qualified
nonprofit organization is to
materially participate (within
the meaning of the Code,
sec.469(h)) in the development
and continuing operation of
the project throughout the
compliance period.
Rehabilitation expenditure
-Amounts incurred in connection
with the rehabilitation of
a project the owner of
which represents to be
"rehabilitation expenditures" within
the meaning of the Code,
sec.42(e).
Reservation letter
-A reservation letter issued
by the agency to a
project owner pursuant to
sec.149.4(e).
Rural project-A
project located either: outside
the boundaries of any
metropolitan statistical area (MSA)
or primary, metropolitan statistical
area (PMSA); or within
the boundaries of an
MSA or a PMSA designated
by the Farmers Home Administration
(FmHA) as an eligible
area for purposes of
FmHA housing assistance programs.
Selection criteria
-The criteria used to determine
housing priorities of the
agency which are appropriate
to conditions in the
state.
State housing
credit ceiling-The limitation
imposed by the Code,
sec.42(h), on the aggregate
amount of housing credit
allocations that may be
made by the agency during
any calendar year, as
determined from time to
time by the agency in
accordance with the Code,
sec.42(h).
Threshold criteria
-Criteria used to determine
the necessary required project
qualifications which are appropriate
to conditions in the
state.
Total housing
development cost-The total
of all costs incurred
by the project owner
in acquiring, constructing, rehabilitating,
and financing a project,
as determined by the
agency based on the information
contained in the project
owner's application.
Unit-Any self-contained
component within a project
for occupancy which contains,
at a minimum, kitchen
facilities, bathroom facilities,
and utilities.
sec.149.3. State Housing
Credit Ceiling.
(a) The agency shall determine the state housing credit
ceiling for each calendar year as provided in the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (the Code), sec.42(h)(3)(C).
(b) The agency shall publish each such determination
in the Texas Register
as soon as may be
practicable after the making
of such determination.
(c) The aggregate amount of housing credit allocations
made by the agency during any calendar year shall not exceed
the state housing credit ceiling for such year as provided in
the Code.
sec.149.4. Applications; Market
Study; Reservations; Notification;
Commitments; Extensions; Carryover
Allocations; Agreements and Elections;
Extended Commitments.
(a) Any project owner requesting a housing credit allocation
for a project must submit an application to the agency which
application shall be executed by an authorized representative
of the project owner. This application shall contain full and
complete information as to each item specified in the application.
When any item is marked "not applicable," the project owner shall
explain in detail why such item is "not applicable." The agency
reserves the right to request the project owner to provide any
additional information it deems relevant as an addendum to the
application.
(b) The project owner is hereby notified that it is
his/her responsibility to ensure that the property is maintained
in compliance with all state and federal environmental hazard
requirements.
(c) The market study requirement in the application shall
comply with paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of this subsection as
applicable.
(1) A market study prepared by a market appraiser selected
from the list of approved market appraisers is required as part
of the complete application when the project is either new construction
or the rehabilitation of an existing project which is currently
below 70% occupancy. The market study shall be prepared at the
expense of the project owner and shall include, at a minimum,
the following information:
(A) an evaluation of the existing occupancy/vacancy rates
in comparable multifamily rental residential developments in
the same market area as the proposed project;
(B) project absorption rates for at least one year from
the date of the study for units in comparable multifamily rental
residential developments in the same market area as the project
that are suitable for occupancy by low-and-moderate income tenants;
(C) projected occupancy/vacancy rates for at least one
year following the date of the study for the market area in which
the project is located, taking into account projected construction
periods and lease-up periods for comparable multifamily rental
residential developments planned or under construction within
such market area at the time of the study;
(D) an evaluation of the need for affordable housing
within the project market area;
(E) such other matters as the agency, in its sole discretion,
may determine to be relevant to the agency's evaluation of the
need for the project and the allocation of the requested housing
credit allocation amount; and
(F) the agency reserves the right to require that the
project owner obtain a market study even if current occupancy
is above 70%.
(2) A written certification is required, in a form prescribed
by the agency, from the market appraiser who prepared the market
study required under the paragraph (1) of this subsection, stating
that:
(A) the projected total housing development cost of the
proposed project is reasonable;
(B) the proposed project, in light of vacancy and absorption
rates for the applicable market area, is not likely to result
in a vacancy rate for comparable units within such market area
(i.e., standard, well-maintained units within such market area
that are reserved for occupancy by low-and-moderate income tenants)
that is unreasonable for such market area;
(C) the projected initial rents for the project are reasonably
affordable by low-and-moderate income tenants and within the
rental range for the comparable projects within the market area;
and
(D) the information submitted by the project owner with
respect to the project is credible and reasonably accurate (with
any exceptions noted).
(3) If a project owner requests a waiver of the required
market study, the project owner shall provide the agency a separate
written document, with any support information attached thereto,
setting forth the exact reasons why such waiver is requested.
The agency, at the pleasure of the board, may, in its discretion,
waive any of the provisions of sec.149.4(c)(1) of this title
(relating to Applications; Market Study; Reservations; Notification;
Commitments; Extensions; Carryover Allocations; Agreements and
Elections; Extended Commitments).
(d) A project owner may file an application at any time
during the following three application rounds:
(1) Round 1-The agency will accept applications between
May 15, 1991, and June 30, 1991;
(2) Round 2-The agency will accept applications between
July 1, 1991, and August 31, 1991;
(3) Round 3-The agency will accept applications between
September 1, 1991, and October 31, 1991.
(4) Any application received after the deadlines listed
in paragraphs (1)-(3) of this subsection will be reviewed in
the subsequent application round, provided that said application
is not received after October 31, 1991. If at October 31, 1991,
the Texas Housing Agency (the agency) determines that additional
credits are available for allocation, then the agency, in its
sole discretion, may extend the deadline to receive applications
not later than November 30, 1991.
(e) The agency will reject any application that is incomplete
or that is not accompanied by the application fee specified in
sec.149.10 of this title (relating to Program Fees).
(f) Within a reasonable amount of time after evaluation
and ranking of an application as provided in sec.149.6 of this
title (relating to Threshold Criteria; Evaluation Factors; Selection
Criteria; Bonus Points; Final Ranking; Credit Amount; Tax Exempt
Bond Financed Projects), the agency shall respond to the project
owner in accordance with paragraphs (1), (2), or (3) of this
subsection, as applicable.
(1) Unless the entire state housing credit ceiling for
the applicable calendar year has been reserved, committed, or
allocated in accordance with this chapter, the agency shall issue
a reservation letter to the project owner receiving a total of
14 points or more as provided in sec.149.6(b). The reservation
letter shall:
(A) confirm that the agency has received the project
owner's application and has found the application to be in satisfactory
form and to contain all required information; and
(B) reserve to the project owner the housing credit allocation
amount specified therein, subject to the conditions set forth
in sec.149.7(a) of this title (relating to Housing Credit Allocations)
and to compliance by the project owner with the remaining requirements
of this chapter, and subject further to approval by the board
of the project owner's application. The reservation letter shall
expire on the date specified therein, which shall be no later
than the 60th day following the date thereof or on the last business
day of the applicable calendar year, whichever occurs first.
(2) If the entire state housing credit ceiling for the
applicable calendar year has then been reserved, committed, or
allocated in accordance with this chapter, the agency shall place
an application receiving a total of 14 points or more as prescribed
in sec.149.6(b) on a waiting list and shall issue to the project
owner a written notice of that action. If at any time prior to
the last business day of the applicable calendar year, one or
more reservation letters, commitment letters, or carryover allocation
documents expire and a sufficient amount of the state housing
credit ceiling becomes available, then the agency shall issue
a reservation letter to the project owner in the manner and with
the effect described in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(3) Applications not receiving a total of 14 points but
meeting threshold criteria will be held in reserve until September
1 or thereafter of the allocation year and considered at such
time for issuance of a reservation letter as provided in sec.149.6(b)
if a sufficient amount of the state housing credit ceiling is
available.
(g) On the date a reservation letter is issued to the
project owner, the agency shall notify in writing the mayor or
other equivalent chief executive officer if the project or a
part thereof is located in a municipality, otherwise the agency
shall notify the chief executive officer of the county in which
the project or a part thereof is located, to advise such individual
that the project or a part thereof will be located in his/her
jurisdiction and request any comments which such individual may
have concerning such project. Such comments shall be part of
the documents required to be reviewed by the board under subsection
(g) of this section if received by the agency within 20 days
after same are mailed to said individual; otherwise, if comments
are received by the agency after 20 days, same may be reviewed
at the discretion of the board under this subsection.
(h) As soon as may be practicable following receipt by
the agency of the application, the agency shall place the application
on the agenda for review by the board at the next meeting of
the board at which applications will be considered. Within 10
calendar days after the board reviews the application, the agency
shall act upon the application in accordance with either paragraph
(1) and (2) of this subsection, as applicable.
(1) If the board approves the application, the agency
shall issue a commitment letter to the project owner which commitment
letter shall:
(A) confirm that the agency has approved the application;
and
(B) state the agency's commitment to make a housing credit
allocation to the project owner in a specified amount, subject
to the conditions set forth in sec.149.7(a) and to compliance
by the project owner with the remaining requirements of this
chapter. This commitment letter shall expire on the date specified
therein.
(2) If the board disapproves or fails to act upon the
application, the agency shall issue to the project owner a written
notice so stating.
(i) A project owner may request the agency to extend
the expiration date of any reservation letter or commitment letter
by submitting a written request for such action, accompanied
by the extension fee specified in sec.149.10. The request shall
specify the term of the extension requested and the reason or
reasons why the project owner has been unable to satisfy the
requirements of this chapter prior to the original expiration
date. The agency may consider and grant such extension requests
in its sole discretion; provided, however, that in no event shall
the expiration date of a reservation letter or commitment letter
be extended beyond the last business day of the applicable calendar
year.
(j) A project owner, who has been issued a commitment
letter which has not expired, may request the agency to execute
an agreement and election statement which has been duly dated
and signed by the project owner in duplicate and received by
the agency in duplicate prior to the end of the month in which
said agreement and election statement was so dated and signed
by the project owner. Upon receipt thereof, the agency shall,
if the project owner is in full compliance with the rules in
this chapter and the commitment letter, execute such agreement
and return one executed original to the project owner.
(k) A project owner who has been issued a commitment
letter may request the agency to execute a carryover allocation
document which has been properly completed, signed, dated, and
certified by the project owner in triplicate original, and delivered
to the agency prior to the expiration of the commitment letter
but in no event shall the carryover allocation document be delivered
to the agency later than December 20 of the calendar year in
question.
(s) Prior to the issuance of a housing credit allocation
and/or carryover allocation document to a project owner, the
project owner shall date, sign, and acknowledge before a notary
in duplicate original an extended low-income housing commitment
agreement and deliver same to the agency. Upon receipt thereof,
the agency shall, if the project owner is in full compliance
with the rules and the commitment letter, execute such extended
low-income housing commitment agreement and return one executed
original to the project owner. The property owner shall then
record said extended low-income housing commitment agreement
in the real property records of the county where the project
is located and return a copy of same, duly certified as to recordation
by the appropriate county official, to the agency. Receipt of
such certified recorded copy by the agency is required prior
to issuance of the housing credit allocation and/or carryover
allocation document.
sec.149.5. Set-Asides, Reservations,
and Preferences.
(a) Ten percent of the state housing credit ceiling for
each calendar year shall be set aside exclusively for qualified
nonprofit projects.
(b) Ninety percent of the state housing credit ceiling
for each calendar year shall be available for all projects (including
qualified nonprofit projects), subject to the following reservations
and preferences set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection.
(1) Until August 30 of each year, 20% of such amounts
shall be reserved for rural projects, 20% shall be reserved for
projects with respect to which the owner has received or expects
to receive a governmental contribution, 30% shall be reserved
for building in default projects or REO properties held by Fannie
Mae, FHLMC, federally chartered banks or federally approved mortgage
companies and savings and loan associations, and 30% for all
other projects.
(2) No reservation letter or commitment letter shall
be issued with respect to any project the total development cost
of which, as determined by the agency, or the acquisition, construction,
or rehabilitation cost (excluding financing and other soft costs)
of which, as determined by the agency, exceed the square foot
limitations established from time to time by the board.
(c) The agency reserves the right to adopt and implement
such other set-asides, reservations, and preferences as the agency
may deem appropriate in connection with the making of housing
credit allocations.
sec.149.6. Threshold Criteria;
Evaluation Factors; Selection Criteria;
Bonus Points; Final Ranking;
Credit Amount; Tax Exempt
Bond Financed Projects.
(a) Threshold criteria. To be considered for a reservation
of tax credits, a project must first demonstrate that it meets
the threshold criteria set forth as follows:
(1) qualified residential rental project which meets
the basic occupancy and rent restrictions of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (the Code), sec.42;
(2) readiness to proceed as documented by:
(A) evidence of site control in the form of a deed or
contract for sale;
(B) zoning approval evidence of current zoning from the
appropriate municipal authority. If the property is currently
a non-conforming use, as per zoning regulations, then the project
owner must provide the following information from said municipal
authority:
(i) nature of non-conformance;
(ii) applicable destruction
threshold;
(iii) owners rights to
reconstruct in event of
damage;
(C) evidence of availability of utilities to the site;
and
(D) evidence of conditional or firm financing commitment.
In order to qualify as a conditional or firm financial commitment,
the project owner should provide, at a minimum, the following
items:
(i) written evidence of
commitment from the financial
institution along with a
contact person;
(ii) terms of the
financing including, but not
limited to, the original
amount of financing, amortization
period, interest rate, balloon
term, and monthly payment;
(iii) listing of all
conditions which must be
met prior to the issuance
of a firm commitment
or the closing of said
firm commitment and the
date by which all conditions
must be satisfied;
(3) a statement signed by the project owner stating that
he or she intends to enter into an extended low-income housing
commitment with the Texas Housing Agency (the agency) as provided
in the Code, sec.42(h)(6) subsequent to issuance of a commitment
letter to the project owner;
(4) for nonprofit projects:
(A) the nonprofit must be a qualified nonprofit organization
as defined in the Code, sec.42(h)(5)(C), and submit a copy
of their non-profit certification documents;
(B) a statement that the nonprofit will regularly, continuously,
and substantially participate in the development and operation
of the project throughout the compliance period;
(5) project owner must provide current financial statements
of any and all project owners and/or its general partners;
(6) only those applications meeting threshold criteria
will be further considered. Project owners whose applications
do not meet threshold criteria will be so informed in writing.
(b) Evaluation factors. The agency will consider applications
for a housing credit allocation using the following evaluation
and point system.
(1) Applications will be evaluated against the threshold
criteria as they are received in the agency during the month
submission round. Applications not meeting the threshold criteria
will be cancelled and returned to the applicant without further
review.
(2) Applications not meeting the threshold criteria
may be revised and subsequently reapply to the agency along with
a new application fee.
(3) The applications will then be ranked according to
the seven selection criteria hereinafter set forth under sec.149.6(c)
of this title (relating to Threshold Criteria; Evaluation Factors;
Selection Criteria; Bonus Points; Final Ranking; Credit Amount;
Tax Exempt Bond Financed Projects).
(4) The application will either receive a "yes" (one
point unless otherwise indicated) or "no" (0 point) in each of
the subcategories of the seven selection criteria outlined under
sec.149.6(c).
(5) There will be five bonus categories in which the
application can earn additional points.
(6) Applications, other than the types of housing proposed
in sec.149.6(b) (7) receiving a total of 14 points, if a sufficient
amount of state housing credit ceiling is available, will be
issued a reservation letter as provided in sec.149.4(e) of
this title (relating to Applications; Market Study; Reservations;
Notification; Commitments; Extensions; Carryover Allocations;
Agreements and Elections; Extended Commitments) and be eligible
to move forward to an evaluation by an underwriter and the Ad
Hoc Tax Credit Committee and a recommendation by such committee
to the board concerning the issuance of a commitment letter at
the next scheduled board meeting.
(7) Applications for projects developed for special housing
needs characteristics that include mental health/mental retardation
projects, group homes, housing for homeless, and transient shelters
receiving a total of eight points, if sufficient amount of state
housing credit ceiling is available, will be issued a reservation
letter as provided in sec.149.4(e) and be eligible to move
forward to an evaluation by an underwriter and the Ad Hoc Tax
Credit Committee, and a recommendation by such committee to the
board concerning the issuance of a commitment letter at a scheduled
board meeting.
(8) Applications described in sec.149.6(b)(6) that
do not receive 14 points, but receive a minimum of 12 points,
are eligible to revise their application within the round submitted
to achieve the required two additional points.
(9) Applications not meeting the required number of points
and not receiving a reservation letter will not be rejected,
but will be held in reserve until September 1 of the allocation
year and considered at such time if tax credits are available.
At such time, applications will be considered in descending order
based on the applications which received the highest number of
points when initially evaluated.
(10) Applications not meeting the required number of
points and not receiving a reservation letter may be withdrawn,
and reapply to the agency in the next available round, if so
desired.
(c) Selection criteria. The seven selection criteria,
and subcategories thereof, are:
(1) project location:
(A) project is located in a difficult development area
or qualified census tract as defined by the secretary of HUD
as an area with high construction costs, land, and utility costs
relative to area median gross income, and qualifies for the additional
130% credit allowance. The project owner must provide the census
tract number of the project which corresponds with the census
tract number designated by HUD. A copy of the census map and
city or location map is required, which indicates the location
of the project;
(B) project contributes significantly to the economic
development of the community by supporting neighborhood conservation
in a locally targeted community development block grant (CDBG)
area. The project owner must provide evidence from the local
city/county authority in the form of a letter, on the appropriate
letterhead, and a copy of the census map, showing the project
is within a targeted CDBG area;
(C) project is a rural project as such term is defined
in sec.149.2 of this title (relating to Definitions);
(D) project provides desegregated housing opportunities
for low-income occupancy outside of qualified census tracts,
difficult development areas, locally targeted areas, etc. The
project owner must provide evidence from the city/county office
in the form of a letter, on the appropriate letterhead, stating
that the project will be a low-income project located in an area
not normally considered to be low-income, and that it provides
housing for low-income citizens which will desegregate the area
and is outside a target area;
(E) project provides scattered site, low density housing
(less than 10 units per acre);
(2) housing needs characteristics:
(A) project is located in county in which the median
age of the housing stock is 20 years or older. The project owner
must provide the age of the housing stock in the project county
by following the Texas Housing Agency County Guides;
(B) project addresses local needs as evidenced by housing
affordability using the Texas Housing Affordability Index developed
by Texas A&M Real Estate Center. Index must be 1.40 or lower;
(C) project is located in counties of the state where
more than 25% of the occupied housing units are renter occupied;
(3) project characteristics:
(A) project is a federally assisted building in danger
of having the mortgage assigned to HUD, FmHA, or a federal mortgage
insurance fund. The project owner must provide evidence in the
form of a letter from the institution which the project is in
danger of being assigned to;
(B) project is a low-income building eligible for prepayment
of mortgage as provided in the Code, sec.42(d)(6)(C). The project
owner must provide either the deed, deed of trust, or a letter
from the lending institution evidencing the prepayment clause
to be in compliance with the requirements of the Code;
(C) project is housing that provides supportive services
which may include meals, but are not limited to elderly and/or
child day care and transportation. The project owner must provide
a letter from the appropriate entity that is providing these
services stating the extent to which these services are included;
(D) the project will be placed in service within the
calendar year. The project owner must certify as to the date
in which all construction and/or rehabilitation will be completed;
(E) project design promotes energy conservation. The
project owner must provide documentation from an engineering
or architectural firm performing the work describing the components
and quantity of insulation to be installed, and that the installation
of these materials will promote energy conservation;
(F) project retains existing federal, state, and local
subsidies through the additional assistance of the tax credit
as an area targeted for special assistance through some recognized
local plan; or project encourages the use of private funds. The
project owner must provide documentation on appropriate letterhead
from the entity providing the subsidy that the project is receiving
the subsidies;
(4) sponsor (project owner) characteristics:
(A) project owner has a track record in successfully
developing and placing in service housing of the type the project
owner is proposing. The project owner must provide information
with respect to its experience in the development and/or operation
of both affordable and rental housing;
(B) the management agent designated by the project owner
has successful previous experience in continuing management of
the housing type proposed. The project owner must provide information
with respect to the management agent's previous experience in
the management of both affordable and rental housing;
(C) project owner has developed a management plan that
specifies how the project will be managed. The project owner
must provide a copy of the management plan for the project;
(5) participation of local tax exempt organizations:
(A) project owner has a community-based board and/or
the project is sponsored and developed by a community development
corporation. The project owner must provide a schedule of board
members' names, addresses, telephone numbers, occupations, and
position titles;
(B) project is a joint venture project between a local
tax-exempt organization and private for-profit entity with experience
in the type of housing being proposed in this application. The
project owner must provide a copy of the agreement between the
two entities, along with sufficient information concerning the
previous experience of the for-profit entity;
(6) tenant populations with special housing needs:
(A) project is located in an area in which more than
14% of the population is over 65 years of age as indicated in
the Texas Housing Agency County Guide. The project must be designed
and equipped for elderly tenants according to the requirements
of the federal fair housing regulations regarding housing for
older persons. There is a referral and marketing plan that includes
plans for providing supportive services to elderly residents.
The project owner must provide evidence that the age threshold
stated in this subparagraph has been met. The applicant must
also submit evidence that the project design is supportive of
elderly tenants;
(B) in projects involving new construction, at least
10% of the units are accessible to handicapped persons. In projects
involving rehabilitation, at least 10% of the units are designed
to be accessible and adaptable for handicapped persons. The project
owner must provide design plans for the units that are handicapped
accessible including, but not limited to, the number of wheelchair
ramps, entryway dimensions, cabinet and doorway dimensions, and
restroom dimensions and features. These features must be certified
in writing, as well as providing the agency with a sketch plan
of each handicapped unit;
(C) project is designed and intended for use by agricultural
workers. The project owner must submit a marketing plan that
indicates a strategy for attracting these tenants. Project owner
understands that this project must be 100% occupied by agricultural
workers;
(D) project is designed and developed for handicapped
individuals including, but not limited to, the chronically mentally
ill, developmentally disabled, or other disabled individuals.
The project owner must provide evidence from local appropriate
authorities to determine housing needs, along with certification
from said authority that the project meets the needs and requirements
for the type of housing being proposed. The project owner understands
this project must be 100% occupied by permanently disabled individuals
and the project must meet ANSI building standards;
(7) public housing waiting lists. Project owner has committed
in writing to the local public housing authority of availability
of units and agrees it will consider those households on the
public housing authority waiting list for the occupancy of such
units. Project owner has prepared a marketing plan with details
and provided a copy to the local public housing authority and
the agency. The project owner must provide a copy of a letter
to the public housing authority, along with a marketing plan
for the project.
(d) Bonus points. Bonus points are available, up to a
maximum of five points, in the following categories:
(1) property is owned by an insured depository institution
in default, or by a receiver or conservator of such an institution,
or is an REO property held by Fannie Mae, FHLMC, federally chartered
banks, or by a federally approved mortgage company or savings
and loan association (two points);
(2) property provides transitional housing for homeless
persons with supportive services designed to assist tenants in
locating and retaining permanent housing. The project owner must
provide a marketing plan indicating the strategy to attract homeless
persons. The marketing plan must also include a descriptive narrative
of the types of services provided and the qualification measures
used to determine these services and the recipients of such services
(one point);
(3) property has minorities and/or women participating
in the ownership of the development and management of the rental
housing. The project owner must provide names of the participants,
along with their role in the project and a copy of a valid identification
card (one point);
(4) project owner offers a right of first refusal to
tenants of the property to purchase the property after the end
of the compliance period (one point);
(5) project composition offers a unit mix which is conducive
to family housing. Bonus points will be awarded based upon the
following percentages of two bedroom and greater size units as
compared to the total number of units: 30-40%-one point;
41% plus-two points;
(6) bonus points for family sized units will only be
awarded to projects which set aside 100% of the residential units
for low-income tenancy.
(e) Final ranking. The agency will evaluate projects
according to the strength of the project to meet the selection
criteria. The results of the evaluation will be determined by
the agency in its sole discretion and will not be subject to
challenge or contest by any applicant. After evaluating and scoring
all applications received each month, the agency will rank such
applications according to the number of points received. Among
those applications scoring 14 points or greater, the agency will
give preference in allocation credit dollar amounts to projects:
(1) which spend the highest percentage on project costs
other than the costs of intermediaries;
(2) serve the lowest income tenants; and/or
(3) obligate the project owner (as evidenced by some
type of agreement) to serve qualified tenants for the longest
period of time.
(f) Reporting noncompliance. In the event the agency
becomes aware of noncompliance with the provisions of the Code,
sec.42, by any project owner or other party associated with
the project and/or project owner, the agency will notify the
Internal Revenue Service in writing within 30 days.
(g) Credit amount. The agency shall issue tax credits
only in the amount needed for the financial feasibility and viability
of a project throughout the credit period. The issuance of tax
credits or the determination of any allocation amount in no way
represents or purports to warrant the feasibility or viability
of the project by the agency.
(h) Tax exempt bond financed projects. Tax exempt bond
financed projects which will not receive tax credits through
the state allocation authority are also subject to the requirements
for the allocation of a housing credit dollar amount under the
allocation plan.
sec.149.7. Housing Credit
Allocations.
(a) The housing credit allocation amount shall not exceed
the dollar amount the agency determines is necessary for the
financial feasibility of the project and its viability as a project
throughout the credit period. Such determination shall be made
by the agency at the time of issuance of the reservation letter,
at the time of review by the board prior to issuance of commitment
letter, at the time the agency makes a housing credit allocation,
and the date the building is placed in service. Any housing credit
allocation, amount specified in a reservation letter, commitment
letter, allocation and/or carryover allocation document is subject
to change by the agency dependent upon such determination. Such
a determination shall be made solely at the discretion of the
agency, considering the items specified in the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986 (the Code), sec.42(m)(2)(B), and the agency in
no way or manner represents or warrants to any project owner,
sponsor, investor, lender, or other entity that the project is,
in fact, possible or viable.
(b) The agency shall make a housing credit allocation
to any project owner who holds a commitment letter which has
not expired, upon receipt from the project owner of evidence
satisfactory to the agency that one or more buildings within
the project have been placed in service. Such evidence may be
in the form of a certificate of occupancy issued by an appropriate
local governmental unit or other written evidence satisfactory
to the agency demonstrating that the building or buildings are
ready and available for occupancy. The agency shall make each
such housing credit allocation by mailing or delivering IRS Form
8609 (or any successor form adopted by the Internal Revenue Service)
to the project owner, with Part I thereof completed in all respects
and signed by an authorized official of the agency. A separate
housing credit allocation shall be made with respect to each
building within a project which is eligible for a housing credit.
(c) The agency shall execute in triplicate, when the
project owner is in full compliance with the rules in the chapter
and the commitment letter, a carryover allocation document which
has been properly completed, executed, and certified by the project
owner, and return one executed original to the project owner.
In this situation, the agency shall, pursuant to the Code,
s42(h)(1)(E), mail or deliver IRS Form 8609 (or any successor
form adopted by the Internal Revenue Service) to the project
owner, with Part I thereof completed in all respects and signed
by an authorized official of the agency, in the calendar year
that such buildings are placed in service provided that such
buildings may not be placed in service later than the close of
the second calendar year following the calendar year in which
the allocation is made.
(d) In making a housing credit allocation, the agency
shall specify a maximum applicable percentage, not to exceed
the applicable percentage for the building permitted by the Code,
sec.42(b), and a maximum qualified basis amount. In specifying
the maximum applicable percentage and the maximum qualified basis
amount, the agency shall disregard the first-year conventions
described in the Code, sec.42(f)(2)(A) and sec.42(f)(3)(B).
The housing credit allocation made by the agency shall not exceed
the amount necessary to support the extended low-income housing
commitment specified in the Code, sec.42(h)(6)(C)(i).
sec.149.8. Agency Records;
Certain Required Filings.
(a) At all times during each calendar year the agency
shall maintain a record of the following:
(1) the cumulative amount of the state housing credit
ceiling that has been reserved pursuant to reservation letters
during such calendar year;
(2) the cumulative amount of the state housing credit
ceiling that has been committed pursuant to commitment letters
during such calendar year;
(3) the cumulative amount of the state housing credit
ceiling that has been committed pursuant to carryover allocation
documents during such calendar year;
(4) the cumulative amount of housing credit allocations
made during such calendar years; and
(5) the remaining unused portion of the state housing
credit ceiling for such calendar year.
(b) Not less frequently than quarterly during each calendar
year, the agency shall publish in the Texas
Register each of the
items of information referred
to in subsection (a)
of this section.
(c) The agency shall mail to the Internal Revenue Service,
not later than the 28th day of the second calendar month after
the close of each calendar year during which the agency makes
housing credit allocations, a copy of each completed (as to Part
I) IRS Form 8609 mailed or delivered by the agency to a project
owner during such calendar year, along with a single completed
IRS Form 8610, Annual Low-Income Housing Credit Agencies Report.
When a carryover allocation is made by the agency, Form 8609
will be mailed or delivered to the project owner by the agency
in the year in which the building(s) is placed in service, and
thereafter a copy mailed to the Internal Revenue Service in the
time sequence previously mentioned. The original of the carryover
allocation document will be filed by the agency with IRS Form
8610 for the year in which the allocation is made and an additional
copy of said carryover allocation document will be filed with
the Form 8609 that is issued to the project owner during the
calendar year that the building is placed in service. The original
of all executed agreements and election statements shall be filed
by the agency with the agency's IRS Form 8610 for the year a
housing credit allocation is made as provided in this section.
(d) The project owner shall be responsible to furnish
to the agency by May 31 following each calendar year during the
compliance period copies of the completed Form 8609 with Schedule
A, Annual Statement, and Form 8586 (or any successor form adopted
by the IRS) filed with the IRS for the preceding tax year.
(e) Project inspections are required to show that the
project is built according to required plans and specifications.
A copy of all project inspections required and accepted by the
lender financing the project shall be acceptable to the agency
as a certification that the project is built to plans and specifications
if such inspections are required by the lender during the construction
of the project. At a minimum to be acceptable to the agency,
such inspections must include an inspection at the start-up phase,
the interim phase, and a final inspection at the time the project
is placed in service. If no project inspections are required
by the lender financing the project, the agency will require
at least three inspections be made of the project; such inspections
shall be at the start-up phase, the interim phase, and a final
inspection at the time the project is placed in service, and
shall be performed by an independent, third party inspector hired
by the agency. The project owner shall pay all fees to cover
the cost of said inspections.
(f) At the time each building in the project is placed
in service, the project owner shall be responsible to furnish
the agency a certified statement as to the costs attributable
to said building.
sec.149.9. Agency Responsibilities.
(a) In making a housing credit allocation under this
chapter, the agency shall rely upon information contained in
the project owner's application to determine whether a building
is eligible for the credit under the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (the Code), sec.42. The project owner shall bear full
responsibility for claiming the credit and assuring that the
project complies with the requirements of the Code, sec.42,
provided, however, that the agency will carry out its responsibilities
under subsections (b) and (c) of this section. The agency shall
have no responsibility for ensuring that a project owner who
receives a housing credit allocation from the agency will qualify
for the housing credit.
(b) Pursuant to the Code, sec.42(m)(1)(B)(iii), state
allocation agencies must develop and provide a procedure that
the agency will follow in monitoring for compliance with the
provisions of the aforementioned section, and in notifying the
Internal Revenue Service of such noncompliance which said agency
becomes aware of. The Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1990,
s11407(b)(10), provides the effective date of January 1, 1992
for purposes of sec.42(m)(1)(B)(iii) and shall apply to buildings
placed in service before, on, or after such date. The agency
will require for documentation purposes, at a minimum, the following
information from the project owner(s).
(1) An annual report, to be submitted to the agency on
the anniversary date the project was placed in service, which
said report will contain unit numbers, tenant name, tenant paid
rental amount, move in date, and term of lease.
(2) A tenant income and rental certification form (to
be supplied by the agency) will accompany each annual report,
which said certification form shall include tenant income information
and tenant paid rental amounts. Said certification must be signed
by each tenant, and certified by the acting management agent.
(3) Project owner must supply the agency with a tenant
income and rental certification form when any unit becomes occupied
with the next qualified tenant.
(4) The agency reserves the right to perform periodic
physical inspections of the project upon sufficient notification
to the project owners.
(5) The agency reserves the right to amend and/or revise
the compliance monitoring requirements as it deems appropriate
and necessary.
(c) In the event the agency becomes aware of noncompliance
with the provisions of the Code, sec.42, by any project owner
or other party associated with the project and/or project owner,
the agency will notify the Internal Revenue Service in writing
within 30 days.
sec.149.10. Program Fees.
(a) Each project owner that submits an application shall
submit to the agency, along with such application, a nonrefundable
application fee in an amount equal to the following:one-40 units
-$200; 41-100 units-$500; 100 plus units-$5.00 per
unit.
(b) Each project owner that receives a commitment letter
shall submit to the agency, not later than the expiration date
on the commitment letter, a nonrefundable commitment fee in an
amount equal to the greater of $1,000 or 3.0% of the housing
credit allocation amount.
(c) Each project owner that requests an extension of
the expiration date of a reservation letter or commitment letter
shall submit to the agency, along with such request, a nonrefundable
extension fee in an amount equal to the greater of $200 or $5.00
multiplied by the number of dwelling units in the project.
(d) Upon the project being placed in service, the project
owner will pay a compliance monitoring fee in an amount equal
to the following: one-10 units -$100; 11-100 units-$200;
100 plus units-$2.00 per unit. This annual fee will be multiplied
by 15 years and discounted at 7.0%; the resultant present value
will be assessed up front. The project owner will satisfy the
requirement prior to the Texas Housing Agency's (the agency's)
release of the IRS Form 8609 on the project.
(e) Public information requests will be processed by
the agency in accordance with the provisions of Texas Civil Statutes,
Article 6252-17a. The State Purchasing and General Services Commission
determines the cost of copying.
(f) The amounts of the application fee, commitment fee,
compliance monitoring fee, and extension fee specified in this
section may be revised by the agency from time to time as necessary
to ensure that such fees cover the agency's administrative expenses
for processing applications.
sec.149.11. Manner and
Place of Filing Applications.
(a) All applications, letters, documents, or other papers
filed with the agency will be received only between the hours
of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on any day which is not a Saturday, Sunday,
or a holiday established by law for state employees.
(b) All items submitted to the agency shall be mailed
or delivered to Low Income Rental Housing Tax Credit Program,
Texas Housing Agency, 811 Barton Springs Road, Suite 300, Austin,
Texas 78704.
sec.149.12. Withdrawals, Amendments,
Cancellations. A project
owner may withdraw or
amend an application prior
to receiving a reservation,
commitment, carryover allocation
document or housing credit
allocation, or may cancel
a reservation letter or
commitment letter by submitting
to the agency a notice,
as applicable, of withdrawal,
amendment, or cancellation. An
amendment of an application
that results in an increase
in the requested housing
credit allocation amount or
increase in points shall
cause the application to
be treated as having
been filed on the date
of the amendment.
sec.149.13. Waiver and
Amendment of Rules.
(a) The board, in its discretion, may waive any one or
more of these rules in cases of natural disasters such as fires,
hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, or other acts of nature as
declared by federal or state authorities.
(b) The agency may amend this chapter at any time in
accordance with the provisions of Texas Civil Statutes, Article
6252-13a.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107897
Mario Aguilar
Attorney
Texas Housing Agency
Effective date: July 2, 1991
Expiration date: October 30, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 474-2974
TITLE 34. PUBLIC FINANCE
Part VII. State Property Tax Board
Chapter 153. Truth in Taxation Requirements
34 TAC sec.153.2
The State Property Tax Board adopts on an emergency basis
an amendment to sec.153.2, concerning notice of effective and
rollback tax rates.
The Tax Code, sec.26.04, requires the board to prescribe
the form and content of the notice of a taxing unit's rollback
tax rate. The amendment adopts amended Model Form 26.04 by reference.
The modifications reflect additional steps in rate calculation
required by law.
The amendment is adopted on an emergency basis because changes
in legislation will require a school district to use additional
steps in calculating its rollback tax rate and these steps should
be included in the notice. Otherwise, a school district that
calculates its rollback tax rate on or after August 26, 1991,
could not publish an accurate notice that would comply with the
existing board rule.
The amendment is adopted on an emergency basis under the Tax
Code, sec.26.04, which provides the State Property Tax Board
with the authority to prescribe the form and wording for notice
of a taxing unit's effective and rollback tax rate.
sec.153.2. Notice of
Effective and Rollback Tax
Rates.
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Model Form 26.04, as amended July
11, 1991 [December
13, 1989], is adopted
by reference.
(e) (No change.)
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107879
Leon Willhite
Executive Director
State Property Tax Board
Effective date: July 11, 1991
Expiration date: November 8, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 329-7802
Proposed Sections
Before an agency may permanently adopt a new or amended section,
or repeal an existing section, a proposal detailing the action
must be published in the Texas Register
at least 30 days before any action may be taken. The 30-day time
period gives interested persons an opportunity to review and
make oral or written comments on the section. Also, in the case
of substantive sections, a public hearing must be granted if
requested by at least 25 persons, a governmental subdivision
or agency, or an association having at least 25 members.
Symbology in proposed
amendments. New language added to an existing section
is indicated by the use of bold text.
[Brackets] indicate deletion of existing material within a section.
TITLE 19. EDUCATION
Part II. Texas Education Agency
Chapter 78. Vocational and Applied Technology Education
Subchapter A. General Provisions
19 TAC sec.78.1
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) proposes an amendment to
sec.78.1, concerning indirect costs for vocational education.
The Texas Education Code sec.16.155(f) directs the State Board
of Education to establish rules on indirect cost for vocational
education to be effective with the 1991-1992 school year. The
proposed amendment would implement the requirement for allowing
indirect costs beginning with the 1991-1992 school year. The
amendment allows a maximum of 15% of the state allotment for
vocational education to be used for general administrative costs.
This is the same percentage as is allowed in all other categorical
programs under the Foundation School Program.
Madeleine Manigold, assistant commissioner for special programs
funding and compliance, has determined that for the first five-year
period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications
for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering
the section.
Ms. Manigold and Criss Cloudt McCuller, director for planning
coordination, have determined that for each year of the first
five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the section will be increased flexibility
for school districts in the use of funds, and an allowance for
defraying administrative costs from program funds, whereas in
the past program funds could only be used for vocational programs,
services, and activities approved by the agency. There will be
no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic
cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as
proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Criss Cloudt
McCuller, Office of Planning Coordination, 1701 North Congress
Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-9701. All requests for
a public hearing on the proposed section submitted in accordance
with the Administrative Procedure and Texas Register Act must
be received by the commissioner of education not more than 15
calendar days after notice of a proposed change in the section
has been published in the Texas Register.
The amendment is proposed under the Texas Education Code,
sec.16.155, which provides the State Board of Education with
the authority to establish the indirect cost allotment for vocational
education.
sec.78.1. Vocational and
Applied Technology Education.
(a)-(c) (No change.)
(d) Vocational education funds shall be earned and shall
be used to support only the programs, services, and activities
conducted for the grade levels identified in sec.75.214 of
this title (relating to Vocational Course Requirements).
A maximum of 15% of
state vocational education funds
may be used by a
school district for general
administrative costs.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on June 19, 1991.
TRD-9107800
Thomas E. Anderson, Jr.
Interim Commissioner of Education
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-9701
Chapter 105. Foundation School Program
Subchapter D. School Year
19 TAC sec.105.71
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) proposes an amendment to
sec.105.71, concerning days of operation required. Senate Bill
351, 72nd Legislature, and other pending legislation affect the
State Board of Education's rule concerning the days of operation
of school districts. The amendment reflects new statutory requirements;
eliminates all prior requirements in the rule except for provisions
for abbreviated days of instruction, which must be set by the
local school board subject to a maximum of six per school year;
eliminates the provision calling for a minimum of 175 days of
instruction; and changes the title of the rule from "Days of
Operation Required" to "Abbreviated Days of Instruction."
Dr. Richard Swain, assistant commissioner for professional
development, has determined that for the first five-year period
the section is in effect there will be fiscal implications as
a result of enforcing or administering the section. There will
be no fiscal implications for state government. The effect on
local government for the first five-year period will be the requirement
of local districts to allocate 20 hours of inservice training
in the 183-day school year. The costs should be minimal and there
is no way to estimate a cost for each district.
Dr. Swain and Criss Cloudt McCuller, director for planning
coordination, also have determined that for each year of the
first five years the section is in effect the public benefit
anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be the
publication of new statutory requirements associated with inservice
education for school districts. There is no anticipated economic
cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as
proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Criss Cloudt
McCuller, Office of Planning Coordination, 1701 North Congress
Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-9701. All requests for
a public hearing on the proposed section submitted in accordance
with the Administrative Procedure and Texas
Register Act must
be received by the commissioner
of education not more
than 15 calendar days
after notice of a proposed
change in the section
has been published in
the Texas Register
.
The amendment is proposed under the Texas Education Code,
sec.16.052 and sec.21.008, which provides the State Board
of Education with the authority to develop requirements associated
with the operation of schools, and teacher preparation and staff
development.
sec.105.71. Abbreviated
Days of Instruction
[Operation Required].
[(a) Regular school program.
[(1) Instructional program.
[(A) All school districts shall operate on the basis
of a semester system, with the schools being in operation two
or three semesters during each school year, providing not less
than 175 days of instruction for students.
[(i) If a district
offers two semesters, each
semester must consist of
from 86 to 89 days.
[(ii) If a district
offers three semesters, the
three semesters must consist
of approximately 58 days
each.
[(B) All school districts shall provide not less than
175 days of instruction for students.
[(C) The first day of instruction each school year shall
not be earlier than September 1.
[(D) The school calendar shall be arranged so that the
minimum hours of instruction required by Chapter 75 of this title
(relating to Curriculum) are met.
[(E) The last two days of each semester may be set aside
for the purpose of giving final examinations in grades where
classroom instruction is on a departmentalized basis provided
a formalized examination schedule is established.]
[(F)] With the approval of the local school board of
trustees, a school may operate on an abbreviated day (not to
be confused with half-day sessions). Where it is determined by
the local board, in order to meet all classroom assignments,
the local board may shorten each class period for any reason
acceptable to the local board of trustees. [Any class period
may not be shortened to less than 35 minutes in grades nine-12.]
This procedure is to be used no more than six times per year
and is to be so noted in the minutes of the local school board
of trustees. [Districts which have scheduled class periods longer
than 55 minutes may shorten periods to 55 minutes at local discretion,
without being subject to the six times per year limit.]
[(G) During the first four weeks of the school year,
school boards may authorize shortened, but not less than half-day,
sessions for the first grade students to provide ample time for
these students to make necessary adjustments to the school environment.
[(H) Upon action by the board of trustees, recorded in
the minutes, no more than three days of actual instruction for
the 1984-1985 school term may be set aside for senior days.
[(2) In-service training and preparation program.
[(A) In addition to the 175 instructional days for professional
and paraprofessional personnel, a total of not less than eight
days shall be allowed for in-service training and for preparation
related to the instructional program of the district.
[(B) Two preparation days must immediately precede the
opening of schools for the regular term, and one preparation
day must immediately follow the end of each semester. Teachers
may not be required to participate in training or other activities
outside the classrooms on preparation days.
[(C) Inservice training shall be provided in accordance
with Chapter 149, Subchapter B of this title (relating to In-service
Education).
[(3) Reduction in required numbers of days of operation
in cases of disaster.
[(A) The commissioner of education may approve the operation
of schools for less than the number of days of instruction and
in-service training and preparation otherwise required when disasters,
floods, extreme weather conditions, fuel curtailments, or other
calamities have caused the closing of the school.
[(B) When schools are forced to close because of circumstances
beyond the control of the school administrator, every effort
must be made to reschedule the school calendar to comply with
required days of operations. When such rescheduling would cause
extreme hardships on students and faculty, the school administrator
may request the commissioner of education to waive the statutory
requirements for operations. The letter requesting this waiver
shall clearly outline the efforts made to comply with the requirements
and the hardships caused by complying with the statutory operational
requirements. Each case will be judged based on the letter submitted
by the school administrator. When waivers are granted the school
district, correspondence granting the waiver should be appended
to the superintendent's annual report.
[(b) Special programs. Special programs may be approved
by the commissioner of education to operate a specific number
of days as required by the program.
[(c) Holidays. All days of attendance or duty in this
section are in addition to and do not include any holidays adopted
by the local board of school trustees.]
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on June 14, 1991.
TRD-9107801
Thomas E. Anderson, Jr.
Interim Commissioner of Education
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-9701
Chapter 149. Education Personnel Development
Subchapter B. Inservice Education
19 TAC sec.149.21
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) proposes an amendment to
sec.149.21 concerning general requirements for inservice education.
Senate Bill 351, 72nd Legislature, and other pending legislation
affect the State Board of Education's rule concerning inservice
education. The amendment reflects new statutory requirements
that: change the title from "inservice education" to "staff development;"
eliminate portions of the rule that go beyond the law in detailing
the use of existing days; modify former subsection (f) concerning
approved entities that may sponsor activities for staff development.
Dr. Richard Swain, assistant commissioner for professional
development, has determined that for the first five-year period
the section is in effect there will be fiscal implications as
a result of enforcing or administering the section. There will
be no fiscal implications for state government. The effect on
local government for the first five-year period will require
local districts to allocate 20 hours of inservice training in
the 183-day school year. The costs should be minimal and there
is no way to estimate a cost for each district.
Dr. Swain and Criss Cloudt McCuller, director for planning
coordination, also have determined that for each year of the
first five years the section is in effect the public benefit
anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be the
publication of new statutory requirements associated with staff
development for school districts. There will be no fiscal implications
for small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to
persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Criss Cloudt
McCuller, Office of Planning Coordination, 1701 North Congress
Avenue, Austin, Texas, 78701, (512) 463-9701. All requests for
a public hearing on the proposed section submitted in accordance
with the Administrative Procedure and Texas Register Act must
be received by the commissioner of education not more than 15
calendar days after notice of a proposed change in the section
has been published in the Texas Register.
The amendment is proposed under Senate Bill 351, 72nd Legislature,
which provides the commissioner with the authority to develop
guidelines associated with staff development of teachers.
sec.149.21. General Requirements
for Staff Development
[Inservice Education].
(a) Staff development
[Inservice education] is defined
as a planned program
of learning opportunities that
affords staff members of
school districts opportunities
for improving performance in
currently held or newly
assigned positions and creates
an environment that encourages
continuing job-related learning
throughout the career of
educators. Staff development
shall include technology training.
(b) The district's staff
development program may include
topics designated by the
State Board of Education
for annual district priority
consideration such as special
education, abuse, or neglect
in students, dyslexia, discipline
management, teacher appraisal orientation,
HIV infection, suicide prevention,
emotional disturbance, and recognition
of signs that a student
is using alcohol or other
drugs.
(c)[(b)] Each local
district shall provide annually
four days of inservice
education and four preparation
(work) days. Two of the
preparation (work) days are
to be used to prepare
for the beginning of
the school year. One
preparation (work) day must
immediately follow the end
of each semester.] Teachers
shall not be required
to participate in group
meetings, training, or other
activities outside the classroom
on preparation days,
except for the three
hours specified in statute.
[(c) The district's inservice education program shall
be derived from instructional and/or professional needs which
the district has identified through the Texas teacher appraisal
system. These needs shall be in the domains of instructional
strategies, classroom management and organization, presentation
of subject matter, the learning environment, and/or growth and
responsibilities. Because of statewide needs, other topics may
be designated by the State Board of Education as mandatory inservice
topics for the school year designated.
[(d) In addition to the requirements in subsection (c)
of this section, the district's inservice education program may
include one or more of the following:
[(1) district and campus goals and objectives;
[(2) curriculum objectives selected on the basis of student
achievement data including, but not limited to, standardized
achievement tests and the state student assessment program;
[(3) professional needs of beginning teachers and teachers
new to the district; and
[(4) topics designated by the State Board of Education
for annual district priority consideration such as special education,
abuse or neglect in students, dyslexia, discipline management,
teacher appraisal orientation, HIV infection, suicide prevention,
and emotional disturbance.
[(e) In planning for inservice education, districts shall
include activities that:
[(1) involve potential participants in identification
of needs, the planning process, and the delivery of programs;
[(2) use instructional strategies in delivering the programs
that address the variety of learning styles of the adult learner;
[(3) include follow-up activities to ensure implementation
of acquired skills; and
[(4) provide for an evaluation of the effectiveness of
the inservice education programs.]
(d)[(f)] Participants
shall include all professional
personnel and those paraprofessionals
who regularly work with
students in an instructional
setting. Districts are encouraged
to offer staff development
[inservice] opportunities for
all personnel.
(e)[(g)] With advance
local district approval, activities
planned by or sponsored
by school districts, education
service centers, colleges/universities,
professional associations, or governmental
agencies may be counted
as part of the required
staff development.
[days of inservice education.
Such approved activities must
be completed prior to
the last preparation (work)
day of the school year.
A maximum of one day
of professional association meetings
may be approved by the
district to count as
an inservice day, provided
it is not used to
conduct the business of
the professional association.]
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on June 13, 1991.
TRD-9107802
Thomas E. Anderson, Jr.
Interim Commissioner of Education
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-9701
Chapter 185. Proprietary Schools and Veterans Education
Subchapter B. Commercial Driver Training Schools
19 TAC sec.185.15
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) proposes an amendment to
sec.185.15, concerning teenage driver education. The proposed
amendment is based on the following findings of the agency: the
agency has previously permitted commercial driver training schools
to enroll students into driver education programs on any unit
of instruction in the course (open enrollment), rather than requiring
all enrolling students to proceed in a group from the first to
the last unit of instruction (closed enrollment). As a result
of the open enrollment practices, the agency found that many
schools were utilizing superficial and haphazard methods of teaching
in order to accommodate the open enrollment. Commercial driving
schools have attempted to justify the use of open enrollment
based on reasons unrelated to sound education, such as the need
for convenient and flexible scheduling, competition with the
public sector, more regular income to the schools, and staffing
needs. In consultation with educational experts, agency staff,
agencies of other states, the State Board of Insurance, and commercial
driving schools, the agency found that open enrollment in driver
education is educationally unsound. It fails to provide group
cohesiveness that will promote positive attitude formation, encourages
disorderly instruction, does not allow for identification of
individual student needs, and decreases the quality and content
of the program. The reasons offered in support of open enrollment
are insubstantial in comparison to concerns for the safety and
welfare of the students as well as the citizens of the State
of Texas. Rules requiring closed enrollment with uniform beginning
and ending dates will standardize instructional practices, provide
a classroom environment more conducive to the effective and consistent
education of teenage drivers, and ultimately produce safer drivers
in Texas.
Dee Bednar, director for the division of proprietary schools
and veterans education, has determined that for the first five-year
period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications
for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering
the section.
Ms. Bednar and Criss Cloudt, director for planning coordination,
also have determined that for each year of the first five years
the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a
result of enforcing the section will be to provide a more educationally
sound driver education program to the benefit of both students
and the driving public. The cost of compliance for small businesses
should have no impact on the number of students, but could change
the timing of revenue to the school. Since both large and small
driver education schools will be equally affected by this section,
there should not be any differential effect between large and
small businesses with respect to cost per employee, cost per
hour of labor, or cost per $100 of sales. There is no anticipated
economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the
proposed section.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Criss Cloudt,
Office of Planning Coordination, 1701 North Congress Avenue,
Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-9701. All requests for a public
hearing on the proposed section submitted in accordance with
the Administrative Procedure and Texas Register
Act must be received
by the commissioner of
education not more than
15 calendar days after
notice of a proposed
change in the section
has been published in
the Texas Register
.
The amendment is proposed under Texas Civil Statutes, Article
4413(29c), which provide the Texas Education Agency with the
authority to adopt rules relating to commercial driver training
schools.
sec.185.15. Programs of
Instruction.
(a) This subchapter contains requirements for driving
safety, driver education, and truck driving. For each program,
the following curriculum documents and materials are required
to be submitted as part of the application for approval. In addition,
these programs shall meet all requirements in Subchapter E of
this chapter (relating to Minimum Standards for Operation of
Texas Proprietary Schools), as well as the following:
(1) (No change.)
(2) Teenage driver education.
(A)-(B) (No change.)
(C) Commercial driver training schools, who desire to
instruct persons [between the] ages [of] 14 to 18 years, shall
provide classes with uniform beginning and ending dates. Students
shall be enrolled prior to the seventh hour of classroom instruction.
A student enrollment contract
executed prior to the
effective date of this
rule which does not provide
for that student to attend
a specific class with
a uniform beginning and
ending date may be honored
by the school, provided
that the training pursuant
to that contract is completed
prior to September 1,
1991.
(i)-(iv) (No change.)
(D)-(H) (No change.)
(3) (No change.)
(b) (No change.)
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on June 19, 1991.
TRD-9107901
Thomas E. Anderson, Jr.
Interim Commissioner of Education
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-9701
TITLE 31. NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION
Part X. Texas Water Development Board
Chapter 370. Colonia Plumbing Loan Program
Introductory Provisions
31 TAC sec.370.1, sec.370.2
The Texas Water Development Board (board) has withdrawn from
consideration for permanent adoption proposed new sec.sec.370.1,
370.2, 370.21-370.35, 370. 41-370.43, 370.51-370.53, and 370.61
which appeared in the March 1, 1991, issue of the Texas
Register (16 TexReg
1351); and proposes new
sec.sec.370.1, 370. 2, 370.21-370.35,
370.41-370.43, 370.51-370.53, and
370.61, concerning Colonia Plumbing
Loan Program. The board
has withdrawn the previous
sections due to substantial
changes which were made
to the rules as a
result from comments received
and legislation passed. The
proposed new sections would
enable the board to provide
funding assistance to political
subdivisions which will, in
turn, allow the political
subdivisions to provide low-interest
plumbing improvement loans to
colonia residents.
Proposed sec.sec.370.1-370.2 would define the scope of
the new chapter and provide definitions. Proposed sec.sec.370.21-370.35:
establish a special revolving loan fund to benefit residents
of colonias for plumbing improvement in federally designated
counties; provide a maximum amount of funds available to eligible
political subdivisions; state the standards and criteria for
eligible improvements and political subdivision eligibility to
participate in the program; state the maximum interest rate and
term of loans to residents; define the responsibility of the
borrower political subdivision for repayment of loan programs
funds; set eligibility requirements for residents who apply for
loans; require the borrower to use reasonable means to collect
payments on loans from individuals; state that, to the extent
the borrower is unable to collect payments on its colonia plumbing
loans, the borrower is not obligated to repay a colonia plumbing
loan; require adoption by the political subdivision of a water
conservation and drought contingency plan before release of funds;
require the adoption of local program operating procedures and
establishment of a separate account for the administration of
program funds; outline criteria for disbursing program funds
and labor standards; and provide for program inspection and require
a program audit.
Proposed sec.sec.370.41-370.43 require information that
is required on all loan applications to the board, reserve the
right to return any application deemed insufficient, and state
the procedures for scoring and ranking applications.
Proposed sec.sec.370.51-370.53 provide for board action
on applications and authorize the board, at the direction of
the governor, to transfer unused funds and repayment amounts
to the state water pollution control revolving fund. Proposed
sec.370.61 would require an audit after a borrower's repayment
to the board.
Susan Morgan, director of accounting, has determined that
for the first five-year period the sections are in effect, there
will be no fiscal implications for state or local government
as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.
Ms. Morgan also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the sections are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the sections will be the provision of
low-interest plumbing improvement loans to colonia residents,
thereby improving the overall public health of the community.
There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated
economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the
sections as proposed. The agency has determined the proposed
sections would not have an effect on local economies.
Written comments on the proposed rules may be submitted to
Todd Chenoweth, Project Director, Economically Distressed Areas
Program, P.O. Box 13231, Austin, Texas 78711. Comments will be
accepted for 30 days following publication.
The new sections are proposed under the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15. 737, which provides the board with
the general authority to adopt rules necessary to carry out its
powers and duties and with authority to adopt rules relating
to the plumbing loan improvement program.
sec.370.1. Scope of
Rules. The sections of
this chapter, adopted pursuant
to the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15.737, shall
govern the board's program
for loans to residents
of colonias for plumbing
improvements in federally designated
counties.
sec.370.2. Definition of
Terms. The following words
and terms, when used
in this chapter, shall
have the following meanings,
unless the context clearly
indicates otherwise.
Applicant-A political
subdivision of the State
of Texas which applies
to the Texas Water Development
Board under this chapter
for funds.
Board-Texas Water
Development Board.
Borrower-A political
subdivision of the State
of Texas which receives
funds from the Texas
Water Development Board under
this chapter.
Colonia-An area
located within a county
specified in sec.370.21 of
this title (relating to
General Policies) in which
households do not have
water or wastewater facilities
meeting minimum state standards.
HUD sec.8
income limits-Department of
Housing and Urban Development
guidelines which determine low-to-moderate
income families. Low-to-moderate
income families are those
earning less than 80%
of the area median family
income or of the statewide
non-metropolitan median family
income, as defined by
HUD.
Low-flow plumbing
fixtures-Fixtures meeting the
following flow requirements:
(A) shower heads limited to a flow rate not to exceed
2.75 gallons per minute;
(B) toilets utilizing no more than 1.6 gallons per flush;
and
(C) kitchen and lavatory faucets in non-public buildings
limited to a flow rate not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute.
Owner-Record title
holder of real property
or purchaser of real
property under a contract
of sale, contract of
deed, or other similar
instrument.
Plumber-Either a
master plumber or a journeyman
plumber licensed by the
State Board of Plumbing
Examiners.
Political subdivision
-A county, municipality, a
non-profit member-owned, member-controlled
water supply corporation organized
and operating under Chapter
76, Acts of the 43rd
Legislature, 1st Called Session,
1933, Texas Civil Statutes,
Article 1434a, or district
or authority created under
the Texas Constitution, Article
III, sec.52, or Article
XVI, sec.59.
Project areas-Colonias
in which the applicant
intends to loan money
to residents for the
purpose of making plumbing
improvements.
Water conservation
plan-A plan adopted by
the applicant that complies
with the requirements of
sec.363.59 of this title
(relating to Required Water
Conservation Plan).
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 5, 1991.
TRD-9108034
Suzanne Schwartz
General Counsel
Texas Water Development Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-7981
Policy Declarations
31 TAC sec.sec.370.21-370.35
The new sections are proposed under the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15.737, which provides the board with the
general authority to adopt rules necessary to carry out its powers
and duties and with authority to adopt rules relating to the
plumbing loan improvement program.
sec.370.21. General Policies.
The plumbing loan fund
established in the Texas
Water Code, sec.15.732, is
to be used for the
sole purpose of making
loans to political subdivisions
which then make loans
to individuals for plumbing
improvements in colonias in
the following federally designated
counties: Cameron, Hidalgo, Zapata,
Starr, Webb, Maverick, Val
Verde, Terrell, Brewster, Presidio,
Hudspeth, and El Paso.
The program is funded
through a special allocation
from the Environmental Protection
Agency.
sec.370.22. Application.
Political subdivisions may make
application to the board
under this program. The
political subdivisions will in
turn make loans to individuals
for plumbing improvements in
colonias. Applicants may contract
with non-profit corporations for
administration of these funds.
The board will not directly
loan money to individuals.
sec.370.23. Amount of
Funding. The maximum amount
of funds to be made
available to any political
subdivision will not exceed
$4,000 times the number
of project area households
which are without adequate
water and wastewater facilities,
plus the cost of reasonable
administrative expenses, unless
the applicant can demonstrate
to the board's satisfaction
that the average costs
to bring an average household
in the project area into
compliance with existing county
or city code requirements
would exceed $4,000. Applicants
are not required to provide
any local match under
this program.
sec.370.24. Eligible Plumbing
Improvements.
(a) Loans may be made for:
(1) connecting residences to water distribution systems;
(2) providing yard service connections;
(3) providing in-door plumbing facilities, including
bathroom sink, shower, and bathtub, all of which must have low-flow
shower head, hot water heater, kitchen sink, and low-flow toilet;
(4) connecting residents to sewer collection systems,
or providing suitable on-site wastewater disposal systems to
enable such residences to meet applicable county or city code
requirements;
(5) retrofitting existing plumbing with low-flow fixtures;
(6) correcting deficiencies in residences that lack an
adequate foundation, walls, and roof for a bathroom, as a part
of the plumbing improvements; and
(7) paying any necessary connection fees, design costs,
and applicable permit fees.
(b) All work must be completed according to local building
and plumbing codes and other applicable regulations. In areas
that lack plumbing codes, improvements must be made to meet the
standards of the Southern Plumbing Code. In areas that lack building
codes, improvements must be made to meet the standards of the
Southern Building Code. All plumbing improvements must be done
by licensed plumbers. Any required design work must be performed
by a registered engineer.
sec.370.25. On-site Waste
Disposal Permit. Borrowers
may make loans to a
resident utilizing on-site waste
disposal systems only if
the resident has obtained
a permit before the release
of loan funds for construction.
sec.370.26. Eligible Political
Subdivisions.
(a) The board will approve loans to a political subdivision
only if the political subdivision is in a county that has adopted
the model subdivision rules promulgated pursuant to the Texas
Water Code, sec.16.343. The board may approve a loan to a municipality
only if the municipality has also adopted the model subdivision
rules.
(b) The board may approve a loan to a political subdivision
only if the political subdivision is, or is in an area within
the jurisdiction of, an authorized agent of the Texas Department
of Health under Health and Safety Code, Subchapter C, Chapter
366.
sec.370.27. Loans.
The board shall determine
the amount of loans and
interest rate provided to
applicants. Unless an interest
rate to individuals is
set in the loan from
the board to the applicant,
applicants may set their
interest rates to individuals,
but in no event shall
this interest rate ever
exceed the market rate
for 90-day treasury bills
prevailing at the time
of closing the loan to
the individual. The maximum
term of the loan to
individuals must not exceed
10 years. Borrowers are
prohibited from generating any
profit from program interest,
connection fees, or other
charges. Program interest may
be utilized by borrowers
only to pay program administrative
expenses or provide funds
to repay the borrowers
for loan defaults. Upon
final audit of the loan
provided in sec.370.61 of
this title (relating to
Audit), the applicant shall
return to the board any
money collected from individual
loan repayment which has
not been spent on program
administration or to provide
loan repayments to the
board.
sec.370.28. Collection and
Repayment. A borrower shall
use all reasonable means
to collect payments on
loans from individuals. To
the extent the borrower
is unable to collect
payments on its colonia
plumbing loans, the borrower
is not obligated to repay
a colonia plumbing loan.
sec.370.29. Eligible Households.
Borrowers may provide
loans to the following
individuals for plumbing improvements:
(1) residents in project areas who are the owners of
the household for which improvements are to be made, occupied
their property prior to November 9, 1989, and whose income is
below the HUD sec.8 low-to-moderate income limits for the particular
county in which the household is located; and
(2) owners of real property who receive loans for plumbing
improvements for real property leased to others in the project
areas, provided the owner owned the property prior to November
9, 1989, agrees to rent the household unit(s) only to persons
of low-to-moderate income until the loan is repaid in full, provides
evidence of adequate collateral and credit history, and agrees
not to displace the family currently living in any household
unit which will receive the plumbing improvements, except for
breach of a valid contract or lease.
sec.370.30. Water Conservation
Plan. Before release of
funds, borrowers must have
adopted a water conservation
and drought contingency plan
that the executive administrator
deems satisfies sec.363.15 of
this title (relating to
Required Water Conservation Plan).
sec.370.31. Local Program
Operating Procedures. Applicants
who receive funding under
this program will be
required to adopt local
program operating procedures prior
to issuance of any loans
which contain the following:
(1) a general statement giving reasons why the applicant
is establishing the program and the local authority responsible
for its administration;
(2) provisions that allow funding only for improvements
permitted by sec.370.24 of this title (relating to Eligible
Plumbing Improvements);
(3) provisions which establish requirements for participation
by local residents in accordance with sec.370.25 of this title
(relating to On-site Waste Disposal Permit) and sec.370.29
of this title (relating to Eligible Households);
(4) maximum loan amount, term and interest rate consistent
with sec.sec.370.23, 370.27, and 370.28 of this title (relating
to Amount of Funding; Loans, and Collection and Repayment);
(5) provisions that the borrower will supervise the
bidding, contracts, payments to contractors, and inspection of
work; and
(6) any other reasonable local requirements which applicant
or the board may deem appropriate (floodplain ordinances, building
permits, etc.).
sec.370.32. Accounts.
An applicant must establish
a separate account for
the program funds.
sec.370.33. Disbursement of
Program Funds. Borrowers
may request disbursement of
program funds on a monthly
basis upon submittal of
adequate documentation of the
households approved by the
borrower to receive assistance.
Documentation will include a
list of the households
to be assisted, type
of improvements required, and
the corresponding loan amount
per individual household.
sec.370.34. Labor Standards.
Construction related activities
funded in whole or in
part by this program
are not required to comply
with the Davis-Bacon Act.
Borrowers must comply with
the provisions of the
Contract Work Hours and
Safety and Health Standards
Act, 40 United States
Code 327-333, the Copeland
Act, and the Fair Labor
Standards Act.
sec.370.35. Program Inspection
and Audit. The executive
administrator of the board
is authorized to inspect
the program at any time.
If the executive administrator
finds that the program
is being improperly or
inadequately operated, the executive
administrator shall require the
applicant to take corrective
action. Failure by borrower
to take corrective action
may be cause for recalling
the loan.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 5, 1991.
TRD-9108035
Suzanne Schwartz
General Counsel
Texas Water Development Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-7981
Applications to the Board
31 TAC sec.sec.370.41-370.43
The new sections are proposed under the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15.737, which provides the board with the
general authority to adopt rules necessary to carry out its powers
and duties and with authority to adopt rules relating to the
plumbing loan improvement program.
sec.370.41. Required Information.
The following information
is required on all applications
to the board for plumbing
improvement loans:
(1) legal name of applicant and authority of law under
which it was created;
(2) name, title, address, and phone number of contract
administrator for the applicant;
(3) name and title of the principal officer and managing
official of applicant;
(4) brief socio-economic description of the project areas
where the applicant intends to loan money to resident for the
purpose of making improvements for plumbing;
(5) staffing and qualifications of personnel administering
program or qualifications of managing entity if applicant intents
to contract for administrative services including a copy of the
agreement between applicant and managing entity;
(6) map showing the location of the project areas;
(7) evidence that area residents desire to have plumbing
improvements and the estimated number of households which would
benefit from the program;
(8) total amount of assistance requested for plumbing
improvement loans and administrative expenses;
(9) a copy of the applicant's water conservation and
drought contingency plan;
(10) evidence that the applicant political subdivision
is in a county that has adopted the model subdivision rules adopted
by reference in sec.355.74(2) of this title (relating to Criteria
for Eligibility), and if such applicant is a municipality, that
the municipality has also adopted the model subdivision rules;
(11) evidence that the political subdivision is, or is
in an area within the jurisdiction of, an authorized agent of
the Texas Department of Health under the Health and Safety Code,
Subchapter C, Chapter 366.
(12) description of plan to provide plumbing improvements,
to include development of local program operating procedures
required by sec.370.31 of this title (relating to Local Program
Operating Procedures);
(13) evidence of available water facilities in area;
(14) evidence that wastewater treatment capacity is available
to serve the project area or that on-site waste treatment systems
can work and be permitted;
(15) evidence that the applicant can repay the loan;
how it will collect repayments from individuals, and a copy of
the form for the agreement to be used to provide loans to individuals;
(16) documentation of pertinent priority system rating
information to be considered under sec.370.43 of this title
(relating to Priority System);
(17) explanation of local requirements that will be incorporated
into the local program operating procedures; and
(18) other information requested by the board or the
executive administrator.
sec.370.42. Return of
Insufficient Application. The
executive administrator shall return
any application not in
substantial compliance with these
rules.
sec.370.43. Priority System.
Applications submitted for
consideration under this chapter
will be scored and ranked
under the following priority
system. The maximum score
an application may receive
is 100 points. In order
to be eligible for funding,
an application must receive
a minimum of 60 points.
Points shall be awarded
as follows:
(1) Texas Department of Health (TDH) determination
-30 points. Letter from TDH documenting that the health problems
faced by residents of the project area due to inadequate water
and/or wastewater facilities are severe;
(2) lack of adequate plumbing (according to latest available
United States Census data)-30 points maximum, determined
as follows:
(A) county average for lack of complete plumbing fixtures
in homes is 100% or more over the state average-30 points;
(B) county average for lack of complete plumbing fixtures
in homes is at least 50% over the state average but less than
100%-25 points; or
(C) county average for lack of complete plumbing fixtures
in homes is at least 25% over the state average but less than
50%-20 points;
(3) benefit to project area residents (as identified
in application)-20 points maximum, determined as follows:
(A) program to benefit 100 or more homes-20 points;
(B) program to benefit at least 50 homes but less than
100-15 points; or
(C) program to benefit at least 25 homes but less than
50-10 points;
(4) applicant participating in the board's Economically
Distressed Areas Program-10 points; and
(5) applicant providing other state/federal assistance
toward program area in the form of water or wastewater improvements
(as identified in application)-10 points.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 5, 1991.
TRD-9108036
Suzanne Schwartz
General Counsel
Texas Water Development Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-7981
Formal Action by the Board
31 TAC sec.sec.370.51-370.53
The new sections are proposed under the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15.737, which provides the board with the
general authority to adopt rules necessary to carry out its powers
and duties and with authority to adopt rules relating to the
plumbing loan improvement program.
sec.370.51. Board Consideration
of Application. After the
executive administrator determines
the applicant to be in
substantial compliance with these
rules, the application shall
be submitted to the board
for its consideration. The
applicant and other interested
parties shall be notified
of the time and place
of such meeting.
sec.370.52. Action of
the Board on Application.
At the board meeting
to consider the project,
the board may resolve
to approve, disapprove, amend,
or continue consideration of
the application. If the
board approves the application,
it will authorize the
executive administrator to execute
a contract with the borrower.
The board will determine
the form of the contract
and the evidence of debt.
The contract shall specify
the loan repayment schedule.
In all cases, the borrower
will be required to begin
repaying loan funds within
one year.
sec.370.53. Return of
Funds to Water Pollution
Control Revolving Fund.
In accordance with
the federal appropriations rider
establishing this program and
the Texas Water Code,
sec.15.733(e), the board, at
the direction of the
governor, may transfer funds
set aside for the colonia
plumbing loan fund but
not used for loans, including
repayment amounts, to the
state water pollution control
revolving fund established by
the Texas Water Code,
sec.15.601.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 5, 1991.
TRD-9108037
Suzanne Schwartz
General Counsel
Texas Water Development Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-7981
Close Out Procedures
31 TAC sec.370.61
The new sections are proposed under the Texas Water Code,
sec.6.101 and sec.15.737, which provides the board with the
general authority to adopt rules necessary to carry out its powers
and duties and with authority to adopt rules relating to the
plumbing loan improvement program.
sec.370.61. Audit.
After an borrower's final
payment to the board
of principal and interest
on its loan, the borrower
will have an audit performed
on the loan by a
certified public accountant acceptable
to both the executive
administrator of the board
and the borrower. The
result of the audit will
be made available to
the board.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 5, 1991.
TRD-9108038
Suzanne Schwartz
General Counsel
Texas Water Development Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 463-7981
TITLE 34. PUBLIC FINANCE
Part VII. State Property Tax Board
Chapter 153. Truth in Taxation Requirements
34 TAC sec.153.2
(Editor's Note: The
State Property Tax Board
proposes for permanent adoption
the amended section it
adopts on an emergency
basis in this issue.
The text of the amended
sections is in the Emergency
Rules section of this
issue.)
The State Property Tax Board proposes an amendment to sec.153.2,
adopting by reference Model Form 26.04, concerning notices of
effective and rollback tax rates. The proposal is published concurrently
with an emergency amendment to the section.
The Tax Code, sec.26.04, requires the board to prescribe
the form and content of the notice of a taxing unit's effective
and rollback tax rates. The proposed amendments to the form reflect
additional steps in rate calculation required by law. Changes
in legislation will require a school district to use additional
steps in calculating its rollback tax rate and these steps should
be included in the notice. Otherwise, a school district that
calculates its rollback tax rate on or after August 26, 1991,
could not publish an accurate notice that would comply with the
existing board rule.
Larrilyn Russell, general counsel, has determined that for
the first five-year period the proposed section is in effect
there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government
as a result of enforcing or administering the section.
Ms. Russell also has determined that for each year of the
first five years the section is in effect the public benefit
anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be better
notification to the public of a school district's rollback tax
rate, financial responsibilities, and surplus funds. There will
be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic
cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as
proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Leon Willhite,
Executive Director, Sate Property Tax Board, 4301 Westlake High
Drive, Building B, Suite 100, Austin, Texas 78746-6565.
The new amendment is proposed under the Tax Code, sec.26.04,
which provides the State Property Tax Board with the authority
to prescribe the form and wording for notice of a taxing unit's
effective and rollback tax rate.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107880
Leon Willhite
Executive Director
State Property Tax Board
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 329-7802
TITLE 37. PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS
Part III. Texas Youth Commission
Chapter 81. General Provisions
Case Management System for Delinquent Youth
37 TAC sec.sec.81.111,
81.113, 81.118
(Editor's note: The
text of the following
sections proposed for repeal
will not be published.
The sections may be examined
in the offices of the
Texas Youth Commission or
in the Texas Register
office, Room 245, James
Earl Rudder Building, 1019
Brazos Street, Austin.)
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes the repeal of
ssec.81.111, 81.113, 81.118, concerning the placement assignment
system; the minimum length of stay assigned each youth; and sentenced
offender disposition. The sections are being repealed to adopt
new rules.
John Franks, director of finance, has determined that for
the first five-year period the repeals are in effect there will
be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a
result of enforcing or administering the repeals.
Mr. Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the repeals are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the repeals will be the adoption of
a new rule providing more efficient use of bedspace. There will
be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic
cost to persons who are required to comply with the repeals as
proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission, 4900
North Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
The new repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
sec.61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with
the authority to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment
of its functions.
sec.81.111. Program Assignment
System.
sec.81.113. Minimum Length
of Stay.
sec.81.118. Sentenced Offender
Disposition.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107834
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
(Editor's note: The
text of the following
sections proposed for repeal
will not be published.
The sections may be examined
in the offices of the
Texas Youth Commission or
in the Texas Register
office, Room 245, James
Earl Rudder Building, 1019
Brazos Street, Austin.)
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes the repeal of
s81.114, concerning the levels of restriction for youth committed
to TYC; sec.81.116, concerning the evaluation of the youth's
home prior to the release of youth from residential placement;
sec.81.117, concerning procedures for parole release of youth
whose parents or closest adult relatives live in Mexico; sec.81.120,
concerning the development of an individual case plan (ICP) for
every youth in TYC care based on the individual youth's need
for services; and sec.81.121, concerning the levels system
used as criteria for youth program completion; sec.81.401,
concerning a uniform discipline system used to teach and manage
behavior of youth committed to TYC; sec.81.402, concerning
rules of conduct, contraband and dress applied to youth; sec.81.403,
concerning procedure for the referral of a youth to criminal
court; sec.81.404, concerning procedure for the reclassification
of youth as a consequence; sec.81.405, concerning procedure
for revoking a youth's parole as a consequence; sec.81.406,
concerning procedure by which a youth is given a disciplinary
transfer or assigned minimum length of stay consequence; and
sec.81.407, concerning on-site disciplinary consequences assigned
to youth in a residential program for minor violations of rules
of conduct. The sections are being repealed to adopt new rules.
John Franks, director of finance, has determined that for
the first five-year period the repeals are in effect there will
be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a
result of enforcing or administering the repeals.
Mr. Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the repeals are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the repeals will be the adoption of
new rules providing more efficient program release procedures
and disciplinary sanctions. There will be no effect on small
businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons
who are required to comply with the repeals as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission, 4900
North Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
Case Management System for Delinquent Youth
37 TAC sec.sec.81.114,
81.116, 81.117, 81.120, 81.121
The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
s61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with authority
to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment of its
functions.
sec.81.114. Program Restriction
Levels.
sec.81.116. Home Placement.
sec.81.117. Parole for
Youth Whose Parents Live
Mexico.
sec.81.120. Case Planning.
sec.81.121. Levels System
in TYC Operated Facilities.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 3, 1991.
TRD-9107902
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
(Editor's note: The
text of the following
sections proposed for repeal
will not be published.
The sections may be examined
in the offices of the
Texas Youth Commission or
in the Texas Register
office, Room 245, James
Earl Rudder Building, 1019
Brazos Street, Austin.)
Disciplinary Practices
37 TAC sec.sec.81.401,
81.402, 81.403, 81.404, 81.405, 81.406, 81. 407
The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
s61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with authority
to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment of its
functions.
sec.81.401. Disciplinary System
Overview.
sec.81.402. Rules of
Conduct, Contraband and Dress.
sec.81.403. Referral to
Criminal Court.
sec.81.404. Reclassification
Consequence.
sec.81.405. Parole Revocation
Consequence.
sec.81.406. Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned
Minimum Length of Stay
Consequence.
sec.81.407. On-Site Disciplinary
Consequences.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 3, 1991.
TRD-9107903
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
Chapter 85. Admission and Placement
Commitment and Reception
37 TAC sec.85.1, sec.85.3
(Editor's note: The
text of the following
sections proposed for repeal
will not be published.
The sections may be examined
in the offices of the
Texas Youth Commission or
in the Texas Register
office, Room 245, James
Earl Rudder Building, 1019
Brazos Street, Austin.)
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes the repeal of
s85.1 and sec.85.3, concerning legal requirements for admission;
and admission process. The sections are being repealed to adopt
new rules with current requirements.
John Franks, director of finance, has determined that for
the first five-year period the repeals are in effect there will
be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a
result of enforcing or administering the repeals.
Mr. Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the repeals are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the repeals will be the adoption of
new rules providing more efficient admissions process of youth
committed to TYC. There will be no effect on small businesses.
There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required
to comply with the repeals as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission, 4900
North Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
s61.035 and sec.61. 07, which provides the Texas Youth Commission
with the authority to establish requirements of admission and
examine each child committed to it.
sec.85.1. Legal Requirements
for Admission.
sec.85.3. Admission Process.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 3, 1991.
TRD-9107900
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes new sec.sec.85.1,
85.3, 85.27, 85.31, 85.33, and 85.43, concerning legal requirements
for admission; admission process; program restriction levels;
home placement; parole of youth; and interstate compact for TYC
youth. The new rules will update current procedures.
John Franks, director of fiscal affairs, has determined that
for the first five-year period the sections are in effect there
will be no fiscal implications for state or local government
as a result of enforcing or administering the sections.
Mr. Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the sections are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the sections will be a more efficient
reception and evaluation processes. There will be no effect on
small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons
who are required to comply with the sections as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission, 4900
North Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
The new sections are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
sec.61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with
the authority to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment
of its functions.
sec.85.1. Legal Requirements
for Admission. Policy.
(1) Each youth committed to the Texas Youth Commission
(TYC) must be accompanied by legal and supporting documents supplied
by the committing court. Upon admission, the following documents
are required of the committing court:
(A) certified copy of the order of commitment;
(B) immunization records;
(C) either Common Application (TYC Form CCF-002) or Commitment
Summary (TYC Form CCF-001);
(D) the judgment which followed adjudication;
(E) petition which prompted the commitment hearing;
(F) birth certificate for all youth;
(G) social history;
(H) education records;
(I) medical and dental records;
(J) any existing psychological and psychiatric reports;
and
(K) pretrial detention time creditable to the youth's
sentence.
(2) The TYC intake staff review the commitment document
to determine if, on its face, it meets all requirements of a
valid court order before receiving the youth. TYC does not look
beyond the document itself for determining its validity. Questions
regarding verification of validity should be directed to the
legal services department.
(3) No youth, under any circumstance, is admitted to
TYC without a certified copy of the order of commitment, immunization
records (except for undocumented aliens), and either the common
application or the TYC commitment Summary. All other documents
may be received subsequent to admission.
sec.85.3. Admission Process.
(a) Policy. Intake activities, including receipt of the
youth from the committing county and orienting the youth to new
surroundings, are performed by Texas Youth Commission (TYC) intake
programs mobile diagnostic team and the statewide reception center.
Each newly committed youth is assigned an official TYC registration
number by the statewide reception center.
(b) Rules.
(1) Admission by the mobile diagnostic team.
(A) The South Texas mobile diagnostic team serves youth
committed by the following counties:
[graphic]
(B) Committed youth are held by the committing county
until the mobile diagnostic team arrives to conduct assessments
and take receipt of youth except youth sent directly to the statewide
reception center including any youth committed.
(C) The team conducts initial assessment of the youth
in the detention center except for physical examinations.
(D) Orientation to the admission process and the TYC
system is provided and documented as required in General Operating
Policy (GOP).53.03 sec.87.55 of this title (relating to Youth
Orientation).
(E) The youth is transported to his or her assigned placement
by the committing county.
(F) Mobile diagnostic staff forward to the home parole
officer, within five working days of admission, the following
documents:
(i) for a violent
offense; or
(ii) by a county
unable to detain the
youth until the mobile
diagnostic team can arrive:
(I) copy of the court order;
(II) copy of the Common Application (CCF-002);
(III) county social summary; and
(IV) a statement from the youth's receiving staff worker
documenting what the youth is stating about whether or not he
wishes to live at home when residential placement is complete.
(G) The placement program completes the following admission
activities:
(i) each youth and
his possessions are searched;
(ii) youth property is
inventoried;
(iii)each youth showers
and receives hair care
as needed;
(iv) clothing is inventoried
and laundered if necessary.
Clothing is issued as
necessary in compliance with
GOP.55.03 sec.87.73 of this
title (relating to Clothing);
(v) personal hygiene articles
are made available as
needed.
(H) Immediately following placement, the youth's parents
are advised of the placement and are provided information on
mail procedures and advised to contact the placement for visiting
procedures.
(I) The region notifies the parole officer, judge, prosecuting
attorney, chief probation officer, and others as needed of the
placement.
(2) Admission to the statewide reception center.
(A) The statewide reception center in Brownwood receives
youth committed to TYC five days per week, between 8 a.m. and
5 p.m. Youth may be received after 5 p.m. only if prior arrangements
are made.
(B) Youth are allowed to have a limited number of personal
possessions while at the reception center. Personal items beyond
basic necessities are inventoried and returned to the county
transporter. The transporter is asked to sign a receipt for items
returned to his care. Items a youth is allowed to keep are inventoried
and a receipt issued to the transporter.
(C) Parents are notified of youth's admission and advised
of procedures for mail and visits.
(D) Staff complete personal data and commitment information.
(E) A youth is assigned to a dormitory and caseworker.
(F) Orientation to the admissions process and the TYC
system is provided and documented as required in GOP.53.05
s87.55.
(G) Routine admission procedures include, but are not
limited to, the following.
(i) Each youth and
his possessions are searched.
(ii) Youth property including
clothing is inventoried.
(iii) Each youth shower
is screened for pediculosis
and receives treatment as
needed.
(iv) Clothing is laundered
if necessary. Clothing is
issued as necessary.
(v) Personal hygiene articles
are made available as
needed.
(vi) Initial health screening
is performed for each
youth.
(H) In addition to assessment and placement activities,
the statewide reception center provides a program including recreation,
education, and counseling.
(I) Reception staff forward to the home parole officer,
within five working days of admission, the following documents:
(i) copy of the
court order;
(ii) copy of the
Common Application (CCF-002 );
(iii) county social summary;
and
(iv) a statement from
the youth's receiving staff
worker documenting what the
youth is stating about
whether or not he wishes
to live at home when
residential placement is complete.
(J) Reception staff transport youth to their initial
placements and notify the youth's families, the region parole
officer, judge, prosecuting attorney, chief probation officer,
and others as needed of the placement location.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 3, 1991.
TRD-9107939
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
Placement Planning
37 TAC sec.sec.85.21, 58.23,
85.25, 85.29, 85.35
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes new sec.sec.85.21,
58.23, 85.25, 85. 29, and 85.35, concerning the assessment and
placement process of youth under Texas Youth Commission care;
the procedures for classification of individual youth committed
to the Texas Youth Commission; the establishment of requirements
for minimum length of stay in a residential placement TYC youth
with specific classifications; criteria and procedures for program
completion and movement of youth committed to TYC; and the release
hearing for sentenced offenders immediately prior to their 18th
birthday. TYC is adopting new classifications for youth committed
to the agency which will assist in identifying high risk youth.
High risk youth are assigned to placements with greater restrictions
and longer length of stay requirements than are lower risk youth.
In general, most minimum length of stay requirements in residential
programs are being shortened in order to maintain basic services
within current budgeted cost per day limitations.
John Franks, director of finance, has determined that for
the first five-year period the sections are in effect there will
be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a
result of enforcing or administering the sections.
Mr. Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the sections are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the section will be a more efficient
classification process. There will be no effect on small businesses.
There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required
to comply with the section as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission, 4900
North Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
The new sections are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
sec.61.075, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with
the authority to determine the most appropriate placement and
treatment of youth.
sec.85.21. Program Assignment
System.
(a) Policy. The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) utilizes
an objective, equitable system of program assignment for each
youth in TYC care. Based on each youth's age, offense(s), and
risk level, TYC has predetermined the most appropriate level
of restriction and minimum length of stay. Services provided
by each program are matched with youth service needs to determine
the most appropriate program placement. The assessment and placement
process provides current information on individual youth needs.
Male and female youth have equal access to agency programs and
activities.
(b) Rules.
(1) Guiding principles. TYC's development of the system
of program assignments is based on the following:
(A) program placements are in the least restrictive,
most appropriate, and available placement;
(B) among program placement alternatives which each provide
the required services and level of restriction, the placement
selected is the one closest to the youth's home.
(2) Placement system factors. The program placement system
incorporates the following factors:
(A) classification is determined by the classifying offense
and a finding regarding extenuating circumstances;
(B) the minimum length of stay is designated by the classification.
See GOP.47.05, sec.85.25 of this title (relating to Minimum
Length of Stay);
(C) special consideration is given to the placement
of youth under the age of 13;
(D) risk is assessed and used as a guideline in designating
placement;
(E) the level of restriction required of the placement
selected is determined by classification, age, and risk level.
See GOP.47.07, sec.85.27 of this title (relating to Program
Restriction Levels);
(F) the youth's assessed service needs are used to select
a placement within the required level of restriction;
(G) see paragraph (5) of this subsection for waivers
and exceptions to the placement system factors.
(3) System description. The determining factors and guiding
principles result in the following initial placement determinations.
Minimum length of stay is abbreviated MLS.
(A) A sentenced offender (MLS, the court sentence or
until transfer, release, recommitment, or discharge), who is
13 or older, with any risk level, is assigned to a program of
maximum restriction.
(B) A sentenced offender (MLS, the court sentence or
until transfer, release, recommitment, or discharge), who is
younger than 13, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of high restriction.
(C) A Type A violent offender (MLS, 24-48 months as set
by executive director), who is 13 or older, with any risk level,
is assigned to a program of maximum restriction.
(D) A Type A violent offender (MLS, 24-48 months as set
by executive director), who is younger than 13, with any risk
level, is assigned to a program of high restriction.
(E) A Type B violent offender classified for conspiracy
to commit murder or capital murder; or solicitation of murder
or capital murder (MLS, 12 months), who is 13 or older, with
any risk level, is assigned to a program of maximum or high restrictions.
(F) A Type B violent offender classified for conspiracy
to commit murder or capital murder; or solicitation of murder
or capital murder (MLS, 12 months); who is younger than 13, with
any risk level, is assigned to a program of high restriction.
(G) A Type B violent offender (MLS, nine months), who
is 13 or older, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of maximum or high restriction.
(H) A Type B violent offender (MLS, nine months) who
is younger than 13, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of medium restriction.
(I) A chronic serious offender (MLS, six months), who
is 13 or older, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of high restriction.
(J) A chronic serious offender (MLS, six months), who
is younger than 13, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of medium restriction.
(K) A controlled substances dealer (MLS, six months),
who is 13 or older, with any risk level, is assigned to a program
of high restriction.
(L) A controlled substances dealer (MLS, six months),
who is younger than 13, with any risk level, is assigned to a
program of medium restriction.
(M) A firearms offender (no MLS), who is 13 or older,
with any risk level, is assigned to a program of high restriction.
(N) A firearms offender (no MLS), who is younger than
13, with any risk level, is assigned to a program of high or
medium restriction.
(O) A general offender (no MLS), who is 13 or older,
with a high risk level, is assigned to a program of high restriction.
(P) A general offender (no MLS), who is 13 or older,
with a medium risk level, is assigned to a program of medium
restriction.
(Q) A general offender (no MLS), who is 13 or older,
with a low risk level, is assigned to a program of minimum restriction.
(R) A general offender (no MLS), who is younger than
13, with a high or medium risk level, is assigned to a program
of medium restriction.
(S) A general offender (no MLS), who is younger than
13, with a low risk level, is assigned to a program of minimum
restriction.
(T) A violator of conduct indicating a need for supervision
(CINS) probation (no MLS), who is any age, with high or medium
risk level, is assigned to a program of medium restriction.
(U) A violator of CINS probation (no MLS), who is any
age, with low risk level, is assigned to a program of minimum
restriction.
(4) Responsibility. The specific program placement selection
for each youth is the responsibility of the Statewide Reception
Center for TYC training school placements; the south region assessment
team for youth placed in Evins Regional Juvenile Center in the
south region; and centralized placement unit for all other placements.
Specific selection is based on:
(A) programs available which can meet determined service
needs and do so within the restrictions of placement assignment
matrix;
(B) a program's proximity to the youth's home; and
(C) a recommendation by the previous program staff, if
applicable.
(5) Waivers and exceptions waivers and exceptions may
be granted under special circumstances.
(A) A placement designation, except that of sentenced
offender or Type A violent offender, which is a disposition to
a more restrictive placement following a disciplinary hearing
or a placement designation following initial reception center
evaluation may be waived by the reception center superintendent
when a youth is qualified. A designated placement may be waived
in order to provide specialized treatment not available in the
designated placement when it is determined a youth: is physically
handicapped; has a special medical condition; or is emotionally
disturbed, if such condition would prevent the youth from functioning
in the designated placement. The waiver is effective for the
period of time necessary to stabilize the youth or to treat the
condition as long as the condition inhibits the youth's ability
to function in the designated placement.
(B) Any placement designation except those of sentenced
offenders and Type A violent offenders may be waived by the reception
center superintendent when population is at or above established
capacity.
(C) Any designated placement may be waived or the youth
moved to any other placement if requested by the superintendent
where the youth is located and granted by the executive director
or designee.
(D) For waiver of classification, see GOP.47.03, sec.85.23
of this title (relating to Classification).
(E) For movement for population control see GOP.47.09,
sec.85.29 of this title (relating to Program Completion and
Movement).
(6) Parent notification. Parents/guardians are notified
of all placements.
sec.85.23. Classification.
(a) Policy. Classification is based on the youth's offense
history, the classifying offense, and a finding regarding extenuating
circumstances incident to the classifying offense. A youth who
commits an offense while in Texas Youth Commission (TYC) custody
may be administratively reclassified through a Level I hearing.
(b) Explanation of terms used.
(l) Classifying Offense. The classifying offense is the
most serious of the relevant offenses documented in the youth's
record. Relevant offenses are:
(A) on commitment, the committing offense and any offense(s)
for which the youth was on probation at the time of the committing
offense; or
(B) following a Level I hearing, the offense(s) found
at the hearing.
(2) Committing offense. The committing offense is the
most serious of the offenses found at the youth's most recent
judicial adjudication.
(3) Most serious offense. The most serious offense is
determined according to the following hierarchy, with each subsequent
factor being considered only if two or more relevant offenses
yield the same result under the preceding factor. If two or more
offenses yield the same results through all steps of the hierarchy,
the classifying offense is left to the discretion of the staff
assigning classification:
(A) an offense which carries a determinate sentence;
(B) the offense for which the designated minimum length
of stay will produce the longest time in the physical custody
of TYC;
(C) the offense which requires the highest level of restriction
in placement;
(D) the offense which carries the most severe criminal
penalty; and
(E) the most recently adjudicated offense.
(c) Rules.
(1) Classifications.
(A) Sentenced offender. A sentenced offender is a youth
committed to TYC pursuant to the Family Code, sec.54.04(d)(3)
or sec.54.05(f) :
(i) murder, sec.19.02,
all;
(ii) capital murder,
s19. 03, all;
(iii) aggravated kidnapping,
sec.20.04, all;
(iv) aggravated sexual assault,
sec.22.021, all;
(v) deadly assault on
a law enforcement officer,
corrections officer, or court
participant, sec.22.03, all;
(vi) criminal attempt,
s15.01, only if the offense
attempted was Capital Murder
(sec.19.03).
(B) Type A-violent offender. A Type A violent offender
is a youth whose classifying offense is one of the offenses listed
in this subparagraph and who has not been sentenced to commitment
in TYC. TYC adopts the Texas Penal Code definition (Title 5)
for each offense in its entirety except where TYC policy limits
the applicability to the specific subsections or under the conditions
named:
(i) murder, sec.19.02,
all;
(ii) capital murder,
s19.03, all;
(iii) voluntary manslaughter,
sec.19.04, all;
(iv) criminal attempt,
s15.01, only if the offense
attempted was Capital Murder
(sec.19.03) or murder (
s19.02).
(C) Type B-violent offender. A Type B violent offender
is a youth whose classifying offense is the commission, attempted
commission, conspiracy to commit, or solicitation of one of the
offenses listed in this subparagraph and who has not been sentenced
to commitment in TYC. TYC adopts the Texas Penal Code definition
(Titles 5 and 7) for each offense in clauses (i)-(xvii) of this
subparagraph in its entirety except where TYC policy limits the
applicability to specific subsections or under the conditions
named:
(i) murder, sec.19.02,
conspiracy or solicitation only;
(ii) capital murder,
s19.03, conspiracy or solicitation
only;
(iii) voluntary manslaughter,
sec.19.04, attempts, conspiracy,
or solicitation only;
(iv) involuntary manslaughter,
sec.19.05, all;
(v) kidnapping, sec.20.03,
all;
(vi) aggravated kidnapping,
sec.20.04, all;
(vii) sexual assault,
s22.011, all;
(viii) intentionally exposing
another, sec.22.012, all to
AIDS or HIV;
(ix) aggravated assault,
sec.22.02, only causing serious
bodily injury, or involving
use of a deadly weapon;
(x) aggravated sexual assault,
sec.22.021, all;
(xi) deadly assault on
a law officer, sec.22.03,
all enforcement or corrections
officer or court participant;
(xii) injury to child
or, sec.22.04, first degree
elderly individual felony only;
(xiii) aiding suicide,
s22.08, felony only;
(xiv) tampering with a
consumer product, sec.22.09,
first and second degree
felony only;
(xv) arson, sec.28.0, all;
(xvi) aggravated robbery,
sec.29.03, all;
(xvii) burglary, sec.30.02,
only with intent to commit
any other violent offense
defined in this subparagraph;
(xviii) intentionally, knowingly,
or recklessly causing bodily
injury to a TYC staff
member if the assault:
(I) is incident to and in furtherance of an escape; or
(II) involves the use of a deadly weapon; or
(III) causes serious bodily injury; or
(IV) appears from evidence to have been the result of
planning; or
(V) appears from evidence to have been the result of
concerted action by more than one youth; or
(VI) is deliberate, unprovoked, and causes bodily injury
requiring medical attention.
(D) Chronic serious offender. A chronic serious offender
is a youth whose classifying offense is a felony and who has
been found to have committed at least one felony in each of at
least three separate and distinct due process hearings, where
the second felony was committed after the disposition of the
first felony and the third felony was committed after the disposition
of the second felony.
(E) Controlled substances dealer. A controlled substances
dealer is a youth whose classifying offense is any felony grade
offense defined as a manufacture or delivery offense under the
Texas Controlled Substances Act, Chapter 481, Health and Safety
Code.
(F) Firearms offender. A firearms offender is a youth
whose classifying offense involved the possession of a firearm
by the youth during the offense. Classifying offenses for this
classification are not limited to offenses specified in the Texas
Penal Code, Chapter 46.
(G) Violator of conduct indicating a need for supervision
(CINS) probation. A violator of CINS probation is a youth who:
(i) is committed for
violating terms of probation
by an act which would
not be punishable by
imprisonment or confinement in
jail if committed by
an adult; and
(ii) was on probation
at the time of the
probation revocation for no
act more serious than
CINS as defined in the
Texas Family Code, Title
3.
(H) General offender. A general offender is a youth who
is not eligible for any other classification.
(2) Extenuating circumstances.
(A) The staff assigning classification will consider
any extenuating circumstances incident to the classifying offense.
(B) Extenuating circumstances incident to a violent offense
are those facts which indicate that the youth is not a significant
danger to the physical or emotional well-being of another. Examples
of such facts include, but are not limited to:
(i) the youth was
an indirect or passive
participant in a violent
act;
(ii) the youth set
fire to an abandoned
vehicle;
(iii) the youth engaged
in consensual sexual intercourse
with someone who was
capable of appraising the
nature of that act and
of resisting it.
(C) Extenuating circumstances incident to offenses other
than violent offenses are those facts which explain a youth's
conduct but do not constitute a legally-recognized defense to
the conduct. Examples of such facts include, but are not limited
to, acts in which:
(i) the only property
involved in the offense
was of minimal value
and was returned undamaged
to its owner;
(ii) the only bodily
injury intended or inflicted
by the youth consisted
of brief or minor discomfort;
(iii) the youth's conduct
was an impulsive response
to perceived provocation and
posed no threat to persons
or property;
(iv) the youth was
persuaded to participate in
the offense by a parent
or other authority figure.
(D) When extenuating circumstances incident to the classifying
offense are found, the designated classification may be waived.
(3) Waivers.
(A) A designated classification, except sentenced offender,
may be waived and a less restrictive classification assigned
when a waiver is requested by the youth assessment panel and
granted by the executive director or his designee.
(i) The assessment panel
may request a waiver
when, in the professional
judgment of its members,
a youth's needs can best
be met by such a
waiver.
(ii) The assessment panel
will always consider requesting
a waiver when a youth's
classifying offense is a
violent offense and there
are extenuating circumstances incident
to the offense.
(B) A designated classification may be waived and a less
restrictive classification assigned by a TYC hearings examiner
at a TYC Level I due process hearing when the hearings examiner
finds extenuating circumstances.
(C) When a designated classification is waived, the youth
will be assigned the classification with the longest minimum
length of stay from among the remaining applicable classifications.
sec.85.25. Minimum Length
of Stay.
(a) Policy. The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) establishes
minimum length of stay requirements for TYC youth with specific
classifications.
(b) Rules.
(1) Minimum length of stay.
(A) Sentenced offenders serve the time assessed by the
juvenile court. See GOP.47.15, sec.85.35 of this title (relating
to Sentenced Offender Disposition).
(B) Type A violent offenders serve a minimum of 24 months
in TYC's maximum restriction program, minus any credited time
following adjudication for the classifying offense. The minimum
length of stay for each youth classified as a Type A violent
offender is established by the executive director following a
recommendation from the superintendent of the maximum or high
restriction placement. The superintendent shall submit the recommendation
to the executive director within 90 days of the youth's admission
to the placement. A minimum of longer than 24 months is based
on the totality of the circumstances, including, but not limited
to:
(i) the seriousness of
the offense;
(ii) the circumstances surrounding
the offense;
(iii) whether the offense
was committed in an aggressive,
violent, premeditated, or willful
manner;
(iv) the foreseeable consequences
of the act;
(v) the sophistication or
maturity of the youth;
(vi)b the record and previous history of the youth;
(vii) whether the youth
acted with particular cruelty;
and
(viii) whether the offense
involved a high degree
of sophistication or planning
by the youth.
(C) Type B violent offenders serve at least 12 months
if classified for conspiracy to commit murder or capital murder
or solicitation of murder or capital murder, and serve at least
nine months for any other designated offense. Youth are assigned
to a medium, high, or maximum restriction program, minus any
credited time following adjudication for the classifying offense.
(D) Chronic serious offenders serve at least six months
in a medium or high restriction program, minus any credited time
following adjudication for the classifying offense.
(E) Controlled substances dealers serve at least six
months in a medium or high restriction program, minus any credited
time following adjudication for the classifying offense.
(F) Firearms offenders are not assigned a minimum length
of stay. Firearms offenders are assigned to a medium or high
restriction program.
(G) General offenders are not assigned a minimum length
of stay.
(H) Violators of conduct indicating a need for supervision
probation are not assigned a minimum length of stay.
(I) Youth given a disciplinary assigned minimum stay
serve up to six months to run concurrent with any other minimum
length of stay.
(2) Creditable time.
(A) For a youth, except a sentenced offender, whose classifying
offense was found at the most recent due process hearing:
(i) minimum length of
stay is counted from
the first day the youth
reaches any TYC operated
or assigned facility following
commitment, recommitment, or a
disciplinary hearing.
(ii) after the count
begins, time spent on
furlough or in detention
or jail counts toward
meeting a minimum length
of stay requirement.
(iii) time spent as
an escapee from a placement
assigned by TYC does
not count toward meeting
the minimum length of
stay requirement.
(B) For a youth, except a sentenced offender, whose classifying
offense was found at an earlier due process hearing:
(i) minimum length of
stay is counted from
the date of adjudication
for the classifying offense.
(ii) time spent as
an escapee from a TYC
or probation placement does
not count toward meeting
the minimum length of
stay requirement.
(C) For a sentenced offender youth, see GOP.47.15,
s85.35 of this title (relating to Sentenced Offender Disposition).
sec.85.29. Program Completion
and Movement.
(a) Policy. The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) uses specific
objective criteria to determine when a youth has completed a
program and is eligible to be released home or to another program.
Progress toward successful completion of criteria is evaluated
at specific regular intervals. When criteria are substantially
completed, the youth attains parole status and is moved to his
or her home. When certain criteria are met but completion of
required criteria is not possible or is not desirable in the
current placement program, the youth is moved to a follow-up
placement where completion is possible. TYC does not accept the
presence of a detainer as an automatic bar to earned release.
The agency releases a youth to authorities pursuant to a warrant.
Additional procedures and restrictions are applied prior to the
release on parole from TYC facilities for all sentenced offender
youth. See GOP.47.15, sec.85.35 of this title (relating to
Sentenced Offender Disposition). Youth may be moved to a placement
of equal or more restriction as a disciplinary consequence. Each
of these and other types of placement changes are subject to
policies in this chapter and in the Disciplinary Practices chapter,
GOP.63.
(b) Rules. (pp>(l) Program completion criteria.
(A) Youth become eligible for program release and parole
status when the following criteria are met:
(i) completion of the
minimum length of stay;
(ii) completion of required
individual case plan (ICP)
objectives; and
(iii) no major violations
of rules of conduct within
30 days:
(I) prior to the case review to determine eligibility
for parole release; and
(II) prior to the actual release.
(B) TYC program staff where the youth is assigned determine
when criteria have been met.
(C) Program completion criteria are explained to every
youth through the youth handbook and during orientation to each
placement.
(2) Release review requirements.
(A) A release review is held specifically to evaluate
a youth's status in meeting all program completion criteria and
thus his or her release and parole status eligibility. Release
reviews are held on the following schedule:
(i) for youth in
TYC operated residential programs
as an initial placement,
i.e., on commitment, recommitment,
or following a disciplinary
movement:
(I) every 90 days; and
(II) within 30 days of completion of minimum length of
stay; and/or
(III) within 30 days prior to release;
(ii) for youth in
TYC operated residential programs
as a follow-up placement
or in a TYC contract
program, every 30 days.
(B) If, at the release review, it is determined the
youth has not completed all criteria and that substantial completion
is possible in the current program, the youth continues in the
current program.
(C) If, at the release review, it is determined the youth
has not completed all criteria and that completion may be more
appropriate in a different placement, follow-up placement is
considered and the objective(s) not met is documented.
(D) If, at the release review, it is determined the youth
has completed all required program completion criteria, a date
of release and parole is set for within 30 days unless a youth
is a sentenced offender, in which case he may be considered for
a follow-up placement.
(3) Criteria incomplete-follow-up movement procedures.
(A) A youth may be released to a follow-up placement
when at a release review, program staff finds and documents that:
(i) the youth has
met all program completion
criteria except required ICP
objective(s) and that a
follow-up program is a
more appropriate placement in
which the youth can meet
remaining objective(s); or
(ii) the youth is
not a sentenced or Type
A violent offender and
has met program completion
criteria except required minimum
length of stay and required
ICP objective(s) and that
a follow-up program is
a more appropriate placement
in which the youth can
meet remaining objective(s). The
youth is required to
complete the minimum length
of stay in the follow-up
placement. A youth who
may be considered is
one who:
(I) has been in initial placement at least four months;
(II) has made substantial progress on ICP objectives;
and
(III) is low risk according to a current risk assessment.
(B) A sentenced offender who has met criteria for follow-up
may be moved to any appropriate follow-up program in any location
other than home or home substitute.
(C) A follow-up placement is always of equal or less
restriction than the youth's current placement.
(D) A youth may request and in doing so will be granted
a Level II (transfer) hearing prior to the release movement.
(4) Criteria complete-parole release procedures.
(A) If, at a release review, it is determined the youth,
except a sentenced offender, has completed all required program
completion criteria, the youth is released to his home or home
substitute within 30 days unless such movement is not possible
according to GOP.47.11, sec.85.31 of this title (relating to
Home Placement). If a youth's release to his home or home substitute
is not immediately possible, he is released as soon as possible.
If a youth in a maximum or high restriction program has not been
placed within 30 days of determining that criteria have been
met, he is moved to a temporary placement.
(B) Release of Type A violent offenders must be approved
by the executive director. A release packet includes the ICP,
record of progress through the level system, record of major
rules violations, the home evaluation, parole plan, a current
psychiatric and/or psychological report, and the institutional
superintendent's and director of institutions' recommendations
and justifications. The executive director notifies the youth,
superintendent, and director of institutions in writing of the
decision. If release is denied, the executive director indicates
a date for resubmitting the release packet.
(C) A sentenced offender youth:
(i) under 18 years
of age shall not be
released to his home/home
substitute regardless of status
without court approval.
(ii) who, subsequent to
the court release hearing,
is:
(I) released under TYC supervision, shall, at age 18,
be released to home/home substitute on parole status; or
(II) recommitted to TYC without a determinate sentence,
shall be subject to rules that apply to violent offenders as
if the youth had been initially classified as a violent offender.
(D) A youth may request and in doing so will be granted
a Level II (transfer) hearing prior to the release movement.
(E) When it is determined that a youth will be paroled
out of state upon completion of the program, see GOP.47.23,
s85.43 of this title (relating to Interstate Compact for TYC
Youth). Arrangements for out-of-state supervision requires a
minimum of six to eight weeks to complete.
(5) Parole-earned and granted.
(A) Parole status means that a youth, having attained
parole status, shall not be moved into a placement of maximum
or high restriction without a Level I hearing. A youth either
earns parole status or is granted parole status under specific
conditions.
(B) A youth, except a sentenced offender, earns parole
status when he is deemed to have substantially completed all
program completion criteria. When a youth has earned parole status
and release is pending, he attains parole status in the current
program prior to the release, unless he is in an institution,
in which case he attains parole status on leaving the institution.
(C) If a youth, except a sentenced offender, does not
earn parole status, he is granted parole status in the following
circumstances.
(i) A youth in
a follow-up program who
has not earned parole,
by meeting release criteria,
attains parole status automatically
when he has been in
follow-up for six consecutive
months after release to
the first follow-up program.
Parole status is automatically
attained in six months:
(I) regardless of progress toward completion of ICP objectives
in the follow-up plan;
(II) regardless of the number of consecutive follow-up
placements the youth has been in since the first follow-up placement;
and
(III) if the youth has not been moved to any placement
as a disciplinary move since his placement in the first follow-up
program.
(ii) A youth whose
initial placement is a
minimum restriction level facility
because his needs are
primarily for basic care,
shall attain parole status
after completion of six
months if the youth has
not been moved to any
other placement as a
disciplinary move.
(6) Disciplinary movements.
(A) A disciplinary movement is the movement of a youth,
following appropriate due process, as a consequence of violation
of rule(s). Disciplinary movements are always to placements of
equal or more restriction than the current placement, as defined
by GOP.47.07, sec.85.27 of this title (relating to Program
Restriction Levels). Youth shall be moved to a placement of more
restriction only for disciplinary reasons.
(B) Disciplinary movements and assigned minimum lengths
of stay must be justified through an appropriate due process
hearing. See chapter on disciplinary practices.
(C) Any disciplinary movement requires that a new set
of program completion criteria be developed in the new placement
which must be met prior to release from the new program.
(D) When a youth in a follow-up program is assessed
a disciplinary movement, he loses credit for the time spent in
follow-up program(s). The six-month time count begins again if,
upon completion of the necessary program completion criteria,
the youth is assigned to a different follow-up program.
(E) In accordance with disciplinary policies, a disciplinary
movement justified through a due process hearing may not always
physically occur. When a youth in a follow-up program is held
in the same program and assigned a minimum length of stay in
lieu of a transfer, the program is no longer considered a follow-up
program. When this occurs, a new set of program completion criteria
is assigned and any accumulated follow-up time is lost just as
it would be if the youth had physically moved.
(7) Six-month justification. Retention of a youth in
any community residential placement beyond six months must be
justified to and approved by the regional director. Retention
of a youth in order to complete a minimum length of stay is adequate
justification.
(8) Release exceptions in hardship cases.
(A) Except sentenced offenders, youth may be released
and paroled home without meeting completion criteria in hardship
cases upon the recommendation by parole staff. Release in hardship
cases requires approval of the executive director if the youth
is a Type A violent offender, or of the deputy executive director
if the youth is a Type B violent offender or any other classification.
(B) A sentenced offender youth may be released and paroled
home in hardship cases only with court approval.
(9) Release exceptions to control population. When necessary
to control population and/or manage available funds concerning
youth in residential placement, the deputy executive director
may approve one or more of following options. Youth, except sentenced
offenders and Type A violent offenders, may be:
(A) moved into similar residential placements of equal
restriction without meeting completion criteria when early release
or movement to a less restrictive placement is not indicated,
but movement is necessary to manage available funds; or
(B) released early without meeting completion criteria
when population is at or above established capacity. Youth who
have completed the minimum length of stay and are low risk are
released first. In general, youth who are closest to completing
criteria may be released next; however, Type B violent, chronic
serious, and controlled substance dealer offenders must meet
the following criteria.
(i) completion of a
portion of the minimum
length of stay:
(I) if 12 months, complete nine months;
(II) if nine months, complete seven months;
(III) if six months, complete five months;
(ii) substantial completion
of ICP objectives;
(iii) no major violations
of rules of conduct within
30 days prior to consideration
for waiver and prior
to the actual release;
and
(iv) recommendation by superintendent.
(10) Notification.
(A) Parents or guardians are notified prior to all movements.
(B) Send original Notification to the Juvenile Court,
CCF-181, to the committing juvenile judge and copies to the prosecuting
attorney and parole officer no later than 15 days prior to the
youth's:
(i) release under supervision
(release to youth's home
or home substitute whether
paroled or as follow-up);
(ii) authorization for an
absence from custody (out-of-state
placement); or
(iii) discharge.
(C) Send original Notification to Chief Juvenile Probation
Officer, CCF-185, to the county chief juvenile probation officer
in the county to which the youth is being moved (any placement
other than into an institution) within 10 days of the placement.
sec.85.35. Sentenced Offender
Disposition.
(a) Policy. Youth who are sentenced to commitment in
the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) with a transfer to the Texas
Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for a term of years (sentenced
offenders) are subject to a release hearing by the court just
prior to their 18th birthdays to consider the youth's disposition.
(b) Rules.
(1) Movement. Youth are
placed in accordance with
GOP.47.01, sec.85.35 of this
title (relating to Program
Assignment System). Prior to
the court release hearing,
a youth may progress
to any residential placement
as a follow-up but may
not under any circumstance
be given parole status
and/or be placed in home/home
substitute without the court's
prior approval.
(2) Court hearing preparation.
(A) During the sixth month before the month in which
a youth becomes 18 years old, the TYC program administrator of
the youth's placement sends the committing court "notice of transfer
to TDCJ."
(B) Prior to the hearing the staff of the youth's placement,
review all relevant records and reports concerning the youth
and recommend at least 45 days prior to the hearing to the executive
director the most appropriate disposition. The executive director
shall determine the disposition to be recommended to the court.
(C) The committing court sets the date of the hearing
to be held at least 30 days prior to the youth's 18th birthday
and notifies all parties.
(D) The deputy executive director appoints appropriate
TYC staff to represent TYC at the hearing.
(E) TYC shall cooperate with any request made by the
court.
(F) TYC will transport the youth to the facility designated
by the court if so requested by the court.
(3) Youth under 1987 sentencing law.
(A) This section applies to youth sentenced to commitment
to TYC for conduct that occurred on or after September 1, 1987,
and before September 1, 1991.
(B) On conclusion of the hearing, the court will order:
(i) release under TYC
parole home supervision; or
(ii) transfer to TDCJ.
(C) A youth residing in an any program other than the
maximum restriction facility at the time of a court hearing in
which a transfer to TDCJ is ordered will be moved to the maximum
restriction facility for the time remaining before he is transferred
at age 18.
(4) Youth under 1991 sentencing law.
(A) This section applies to youth sentenced to commitment
to TYC for conduct that occurred on or after September 1, 1991.
(B) On conclusion of the hearing, the court will order:
(i) recommitment to TYC
without a determinant sentence;
(ii) Transfer to TDCJ;
or
(iii) final discharge.
(C) Subsequent to the hearing, a youth recommitted to
TYC without a determinate sentence is subject to rules that apply
to violent offenders as if the youth had been initially classified
as a violent offender.
(D) On conclusion of the hearing when transfer to TDCJ
is ordered by the court the youth is immediately transported
and transferred to TDCJ.
(5) Discharge. Sentenced youth are discharged:
(i) if ordered by
the court;
(ii) on the 21st
birthday if not already
discharged or transferred;
(iii) prior to age
18 with approval of the
committing court; or
(iv) on the day
the sentence is completed,
including the time spent
in detention in connection
with the case plus time
spent at TYC under the
order of commitment.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107835
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
Placement Planning
37 TAC sec.85.23, sec.85.29
(Editor's note: The
text of the following
sections proposed for repeal
will not be published.
The sections may be examined
in the offices of the
Texas Youth Commission or
in the Texas Register
office, Room 245, James
Earl Rudder Building, 1019
Brazos Street, Austin.)
The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes the repeal of
s85.23 and sec.85. 29, concerning the procedures for classification
of individual youth; and criteria and procedures for program
completion and movement of youth committed to TYC. The sections
are being repealed to adopt new rules.
John Franks, director of finance, has determined that for
the first five-year period the repeals are in effect there will
be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a
result of enforcing or administering the repeals.
Mr Franks also has determined that for each year of the first
five years the repeals are in effect the public benefit anticipated
as a result of enforcing the repeals will be the adoption of
new rules providing more efficient classification, program completion,
and movement of youth committed to TYC. There will be no effect
on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to
persons who are required to comply with the repeals as proposed.
Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Gail Graham,
Policy and Manuals Coordinator, Texas Youth Commission 4900 North
Lamar Boulevard, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.
The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
s61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the
authority to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment
of its functions.
sec.85.23. Classification.
sec.85.29. Program Completion
and Movement.
This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's authority
to adopt.
Issued in Austin, Texas, on July 2, 1991.
TRD-9107833
Ron Jackson
Executive Director
Texas Youth Commission
Earliest possible date of adoption: August 12, 1991
For further information, please call: (512) 483-5244
37 TAC sec.sec.85.27, 85.31,
85.33, 85.43
The new sections are proposed under the Human Resources Code,
sec.61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with
the authority to make rules appropriate to the proper accomplishment
of its functions.
sec.85.27. Program Restriction
Levels.
(a) Policy. To assist Texas Youth Commission (TYC) staff
in placing youth in the least restrictive appropriate placement
available, programs of like restriction are categorized.
(a) Rules.
(1) Explanation of terms used.
(A) Self-contained program-a 24-hour supervision
program in which the treatment, training, and education program
is conducted on the premises. A self-contained program is a program
without routine unsupervised access to the community, unless
otherwise stated.
(B) Routine unsupervised access to the community-a
privilege offered by some programs whereby a youth may be absent
from the program without staff supervision for 48 hours or more
per month prior to the youth's last month in the program.
(2) Levels.
(A) Maximum Restriction-a self-contained program
with perimeter security which provides services solely to youth
who are violent or sentenced offenders (for example: Giddings
State School).
(B) High restriction-a self-contained program which
provides services primarily for youth who are high-risk to self
or others. For example:
(i) TYC training schools
in Brownwood, Crockett, Gainesville,
West Texas;
(ii) Corsicana Residential
Treatment Center;
(iii) self-contained residential
contract placement designated by
TYC as appropriate;
(iv) Vernon Drug Treatment
Center;
(v) state hospitals.
(C) Medium restriction-any self-contained program
which provides routine unsupervised access to the community,
or any facility not self-contained which provides services primarily
for youth who are a medium level risk to self or others. For
example:
(i) TYC halfway houses;
(ii) any residential contract
program which is not
self-contained, e. g., certain
substance abuse programs, residential
treatment centers, or group
homes;
(iii) independent living
preparation program;
(iv) any nonresidential program
which provides treatment, training,
or supervising contact at
least five times per
week;
(D) Minimum restriction-any foster care program
which provides specialized care and supervision services in the
community or any nonresidential program which provides treatment,
training, or supervision less than five times a week.
(E) Home-the home of the parent, other relative
acting in the role of parent, managing conservator, or guardian,
or an independent living arrangement. For example:
(i) home;
(ii) independent living in
any approved location;
(iii) foster care independent
living.
sec.85.31. Home Placement.
(a) Policy.
(1) The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) staff evaluates
each youth's home to determine whether the home is approved or
disapproved for placement and whether the youth will be returned
to his or her home upon release from residential placement. A
youth's home is considered approved for placement unless one
or more of the following disapproval criteria exists, and can
be documented:
(A) physical abuse;
(B) sexual abuse;
(C) physical absence of parent caretaker due to criminal
incarceration or physical/psychiatric hospitalization;
(D) serious physical/survival neglect;
(E) legal termination of parental rights.
(2) Youth with approved homes with no placement objection
are placed in their homes. Youth with approved homes but with
a placement objection may or may not be placed in their homes.
Youth with disapproved home placements are not placed in their
homes. Emergency furloughs of youth with a current disapproved
home or pending evaluation status may be granted if necessary.
Administrative furloughs are prohibited.
(3) The home evaluation process is applied to the home
of each youth's legal parent(s), or guardian or relative who
has volunteered to have the youth placed in his home. Nonrelatives
are not considered for placement through this process. Incidents
of a parent refusing to accept supervision of his child and/or
incidents of a TYC youth claiming abuse in his home are reported
to Child Protective Services Division of the Texas Department
of Human Services.
(b) Rules.
(1) When a home evaluation is conducted.
(A) Immediately upon admission, the mobile diagnostic
team or reception center staff sends the home parole officer:
(i) a copy of the
court order;
(i) a copy of the
Common Application, Form CCF-002;
(iii) a copy of
the social summary if
received from the county;
(iv) a statement from
the youth's receiving staff
worker documenting what the
youth is stating about
whether or not he wishes
to live at home when
residential placement is complete.
See paragraph (3) (A)
of this subsection.
(B) From the date of admission to TYC the parole officer
completes initial home evaluations for:
(i) 85% of caseload
within 21 days;
(ii) 95% of caseload
within 45 days; or
(iii) makes and documents
at least three assertive
attempts to conduct the
evaluation within that time.
(C) When the initial evaluation cannot be completed within
the 45-day period, the evaluation is designated as pending and
follow-up attempts are made and documented at intervals no greater
than 30 days until the evaluation is completed.
(D) A completed home evaluation is considered current
for any youth released to his home within six months of the date
of arrival at the initial placement.
(i) For all youth
except violent offenders, a
follow-up evaluation is conducted
prior to completion of
the six months.
(ii) For all violent
offenders, a follow-up evaluation
is conducted 12 months
after the date of the
initial placement and/or 60
days prior to the youth's
projected release date, whichever
is sooner.
(E) The institution is responsible for notifying the
parole officer of a violent offender's projected release date.
(F) When new evidence or special circumstances warrant,
a youth's primary service worker (PSW) can request that a follow-up
home evaluation be conducted.
(2) Home evaluation status.
(A) All completed home evaluations are either approved
or disapproved as the youth's home placement but may, prior to
completion, temporarily be in a pending status. By 45 days after
the required documentation is received, each home evaluation
carries one of the following designations.
(i) Approved home placement
-investigation indicates conditions
which could facilitate the
rehabilitative adjustment of the
youth.
(ii) Disapproved home placement
-investigation indicates conditions
which would impede the
rehabilitative adjustment of the
youth.
(iii) Pending home placement
-a temporary status meaning
the investigation has not
yet been completed but
that required attempts have
been made and will continue
to be made until the
evaluation has been completed
and the home is either
approved or disapproved.
(B) The home placement status can be changed only as
a result of a follow-up home evaluation by the assigned parole
officer.
(3) Approved home-placement objection.
(A) A youth's home is said to have a placement objection
when none of the criteria for disapproval of the home exists
but:
(i) the parent states
that he or she cannot
or will not supervise
the youth; or
(ii) the parent states
that the youth is not
welcome in the home;
or
(iii) the youth states
that he or she will
not remain in the home.
(B) When a placement objection occurs, the parole officer
assesses specific considerations and determines whether, in his
best professional judgment, to recommend placement in the home,
placement with a relative, or placement elsewhere. Specific considerations
are:
(i) the age, maturity,
physical size, and ability
of the youth to protect
or care for himself should
the need arise;
(ii) the psychological/emotional
level of the youth as
indicated in psychological and
psychiatric evaluations, social
summaries, behavioral progress
reports, and diagnostic evaluations;
(iii) whether either or
both the parent and the
youth are stating a desire
or willingness to seek
professional assistance in resolving
their conflicts;
(iv) whether, the youth
is claiming the existence
of abuse or neglect in
the home to self or
to siblings; and
(v) whether the youth's
offense record/committing offense
indicates a strong behavioral
risk. If the offenses
are primarily against persons,
extensive review of the
youth's behavior/discipline record
while in residence with
TYC is conducted. If
records substantiate commission
of a violent offense,
the final decision, whether
or not to place the
youth in the home, is
made by the director
of community services.
(4) Supervision in placement.
(A) Youth returned home who have no placement objection
on their approved home placement evaluation, are supervised according
to general operating procedure (GOP). 49.23, sec.87.23 of this
title (relating to Supervision Levels in Parole Home Placement).
(B) Youth returned home who have a placement objection
on their approved home evaluation, are supervised by the assigned
parole officer according to the following special supervision
procedures in addition to the individual supervision plan.
(i) Special intense supervision
is provided by the assigned
parole officer for a
minimum of six weeks
following release to home
placement and must include
one in person and one
telephone contact with the
youth each week.
(ii) The individual case
plan includes all specific
conditions of placement and
all planned activities to
assist the family in
resolving conflicts and other
problems.
(5) Disapproved home placement.
(A) A parent(s) whose child will not be returning home
is asked to assist in locating a relative who might be willing
to have the youth placed in his home. If the home of the relative
is approved, a youth may be placed in the home unless the managing
conservator strongly objects to such placement in which case
alternatives are sought.
(B) When a suitable relative cannot be located, the assigned
casemanager is informed and alternative placement is sought.
(6) Documentation.
(A) Disapproval of a home should be supported by evidence
which includes written documentation of relevant problems found
by another agency, e.g., the County Juvenile Probation Department,
Texas Department of Human Services, police departments, hospital
reports, etc. When adequate support documentation is not found
in the youth's file, the appropriate agency should be contacted
for additional information. If there is no documentation by another
agency to support disapproval but the evaluating parole officer
finds reason to believe that disapproval criteria are present,
the parole officer documents all observations and conversations
leading to a recommendation for disapproval.
(B) TYC reports to the Texas Department of Human Services,
Child Protection Services, all cases of a youth verbalizing abuse
in the home and all cases of a parent(s) refusing to accept supervision
of the youth.
(C) The result of the evaluation and any follow-up evaluations
are documented on the Home Evaluation, Form CCF-100, and supporting
documentation is attached.
(D) Parents are immediately informed in writing when
the home is diapproved for placement and the reasons for such.
Any action which the parent could take to correct a deficiency
is included. A copy of the letter is attached to the CCF-100
form.
(E) The parole officer's signature and recommendation
for approval or disapproval is required for all completed home
evaluations.
(F) The parole supervisor's signature and approval or
disapproval of the youth being placed in the home are required
for all home evaluations.
(G) The director of community services' signature and
approval or disapproval of the youth being placed in the home
are required only when the home is approved, there is a placement
objection, and the youth's record indicates commission of a violent
offense.
(H) The original Home Evaluation, Form CCF-100, with
all signatures and documentation, is sent to the youth's primary
service worker and is filed in the youth's masterfile.
sec.85.33. Parole of
Youth Whose Parents Live
in Mexico.
(a) Policy. The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) works with
the Mexican Consulate and the United States Immigration and Naturalization
Service for parole release of youth whose parents or closest
adult relative live in Mexico. Such youth are released and returned
to their homes on parole status and without parole supervision.
Procedures herein apply to all programs releasing TYC youth whose
parents live in Mexico.
(b) Rules.
(1) When completion of program criteria has been met,
the releasing program informs centralized placement of the pending
release. Centralized placement is responsible for notification
of appropriate persons within specified time limits.
(A) Thirty days before parole release the releasing program
staff:
(i) notifies the appropriate
Mexican Consulate of the
expected release date so
that arrangements can be
made for returning the
youth home;
(ii) sends notification of
parole release to the
appropriate authorities, CCF-181;
(iii) completes the parole
release packet;
(iv) notifies the assigned
parole officer of release
arrangements;
(v) sends the family
notification of parole release
(in English and Spanish);
and
(vi) sends written notice
to the Immigration and
Naturalization Service in the
region.
(B) Two days before the release, centralized placement
confirms the release date, time and place with the consulate
and the parole office.
(2) On the day of parole release, centralized placement
transports the youth to a place designated by the Mexican Consulate
office. The assigned parole officer is present at the designated
location.
(3) The youth is left in the care of the consulate and
a written receipt for the youth signed by the Mexican consul
general or designee is obtained.
(4) If the release of a youth is canceled for any reason,
the releasing program immediately notifies centralized placement
who notifies the Mexican Consulate, Immigration and Naturalization
Service, parole officer, and other affected parties.
sec.85.43. Interstate Compact
for TYC Youth.
(a) Policy. The Texas Legislature enacted the Uniform
Interstate Compact on Juveniles in 1965 by adding a new section
to the Texas Youth Commission Act, Texas Civil Statutes, Article
5143e, Texas Family Code, Chapter 25. The governor appointed
the executive director of the Texas Youth Commission as compact
administrator. The deputy administrator is responsible for the
daily operations of the compact. The Interstate Compact on Juveniles
(ICJ) Office is responsible for ensuring that services are provided
for delinquent youth who are sent between states while on probation
or parole and to return escapees, absconders, and nonadjudicated
runaway youth to the state having legal jurisdiction.
(b) Rules.
(1) Article VII-courtesy supervision-other states
supervising TYC youth.
(A) All requests for courtesy supervision must be submitted
to the ICJ office in triplicate. A referral consists of:
(i) ICJ forms, I-A,
IV, VI;
(ii) signed individual case
plan (ICP);
(iii) common application;
(vi) treatment plans;
(v) social history;
(vi) school records;
(vii) medical records;
(viii) commitment order;
(ix) order of adjudication;
(x) pre-disposition report;
(xi) updated psychological
report.
(B) All requests for courtesy supervision must be submitted
to the ICJ office six weeks prior to release date. This allows
the receiving state adequate time to complete a home investigation.
(C) Upon acceptance, the sending institutional or field
staff notifies the committing judge and district attorney of
out-of-state placement, CCF-181, Notification to Juvenile Court.
The sending staff coordinates the necessary travel arrangements.
(D) The institutional placement coordinator or field
staff sends to the ICJ office prior to youth being sent to the
other state:
(i) ICJ form V;
(ii)