TITLE social-services-and-assistance

Part II. Texas Rehabilitation Commission

Chapter 102. Texas Rehabilitation Advisory Council

40 TAC §102.3, §102.4

The Texas Rehabilitation Commission (TRC) proposes amendments to §102.3 and §102.4, concerning Composition and Appointment and Functions of the Council.

The sections are being amended because changes are required by amendments to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Charles E. Harrison, Jr., Deputy Commissioner for Financial Services, 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.

Mr. Harrison 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 to include grants within the appeal rules for contracts. 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 Roger Darley, Assistant General Counsel, Texas Rehabilitation Commission, 4900 North Lamar Boulevard, Suite 7300, Austin, Texas 78751.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Human Resources Code, Title 7, Chapter 111, §111.018 and §111.023, which provides the Texas Rehabilitation Commission with the authority to promulgate rules consistent with Title 7, Texas Human Resources Code.

No other statute, article, or code is affected by this proposal.

§102.3.Composition and Appointment.

(a)

Composition of the council shall consist of:

(1)

at least one representative of the Statewide Independent Living Council established under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, §705, which representative may be the chairperson or other designee of the council;

(2)

at least one representative of a parent training and information center established pursuant to §682(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as added by §101 of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997; Public Law 105-17) [ , §631(e)(1) (20 United States Code 1431(e)(1)) ];

(3)

at least one representative of the client assistance program established under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, §112;

(4)

at least one qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor, with knowledge of and experience with vocational rehabilitation programs, who shall serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the council if the counselor is an employee of the commission;

(5)

at least one representative of community rehabilitation program service providers;

(6)

four representatives of business, industry, and labor;

(7)

representatives of disability advocacy groups representing a cross-section of:

(A)

individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities; and

(B)

individuals' [ parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized ] representatives of individuals with disabilities who have difficulty in representing themselves or are unable due to their disabilities to represent themselves; [ and ]

(8)

current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services [ . ] ;

(9)

in a State in which one or more projects are carried out under Section 121 of Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, at least one representative of the directors of the projects.

(10)

at least one representative of the State educational agency responsible for the public education of students with disabilities who are eligible to receive services under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; and

(11)

at least one representative of the State Workforce Investment Board.

(b)

The commissioner shall be an ex officio nonvoting member of the council.

(c)

Council members are appointed by the governor after soliciting recommendations from representatives of organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities and organizations interested in individuals with disabilities. The governor will select persons who have demonstrated knowledge of, and interest in, disability issues. Appointments will reflect a balanced representation of disability, geographic region, and ethnicity. In selecting members, the Governor shall consider, to the greatest extent practicable, the extent to which minority populations are represented on the Council.

(d)

A majority of council members shall be persons who are individuals with disabilities and not employed by the commission.

(e)

A chairperson will preside over council meetings. The Council shall select a chairperson from among the membership of the Council.

(f)

Each member of the council shall serve for a term of not more than three years, except that:

(1)

a member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which a predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term; and

(2)

the terms of service of the members initially appointed shall be (as specified by the appointing authority) for such fewer number of years as will provide for the expiration of terms on a staggered basis.

(g)

No member of the council other than a representative described in subsections (a)(3) or (a)(9) of this section may serve more than two consecutive full terms.

(h)

Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the council shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. The vacancy shall not affect the power of the remaining members to execute the duties of the council. The Governor may delegate the authority to fill such a vacancy to the remaining members of the Council after making the original appointment.

§102.4.Functions of the Council.

The Council shall after consulting with the State Workforce Investment board :

(1)

review, analyze, and advise the Commission regarding the performance of responsibilities, particularly responsibilities relating to:

(A)

eligibility (including order of selection);

(B)

the extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and

(C)

functions performed by State agencies that affect or that potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment outcomes under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended [ rehabilitation goals and objectives ] ;

(D)

jointly identifying with the commission qualified persons to serve in a pool of impartial hearing officers.

(E)

the review of impartial hearing decisions that have been redacted ensuring confidentiality.

[ (2)

advise the commission and, at its discretion, assist in the preparation of applications, the state plan, the strategic plan, and amendments to the plans, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required;]

(2)

in partnership with the commission:

(A)

develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance with §101(a)(15)(C) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and

(B)

evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program and submit reports of progress to the Commissioner in accordance with section 101(a)(15)(E);

[ (3)

to the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with]:

[ (A)

the functions performed by state agencies and other public and private entities responsible for performing functions for individuals with disabilities; and]

[ (B)

vocational rehabilitation services:]

[ (i)

provided, or paid for from funds made available, under] Title 29, §725, or through other public or private sources; and]

[ (ii)

provided state agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities;]

(3)

advise the commission regarding activities authorized to be carried out under Title I, and assist in the preparation of the State plan and amendments to the plan, applications, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required by Title I;

(4)

to the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with:

(A)

the functions performed by the commission;

(B)

vocational rehabilitation services provided by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act; and

(C)

employment outcomes achieved by eligible individuals receiving services under Title I, including the availability of health and other employment benefits in connection with such employment outcomes;

(5)

[ (4) ] prepare and submit an annual report to the governor [ or appropriate state entity ] and the commissioner on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs operated within the state, and make the report available to the public;

[ (5)

coordinate with other councils within the state, including the Statewide Independent Living Council established under Title 29, §796d, the advisory panel established under Title 20, §1431(a)(12), the State Planning Council described in Title 42, §6024, and the State Mental Health Planning Council established under Title 42, §300x-4(e);]

(6)

the Council will report to the Board at least annually on the Council's activities and on the results of the Council's work;

(7)

to avoid duplication of efforts and enhance the number if individual served, coordinate activities with the activities of other councils within the State, including the Statewide Independent Living Council established under section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act, the advisory panel established under §612(a)(21) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the State Developmental Disabilities Council described in §124 of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, the state mental health planning council established under §1914(a) of the Public Health Service Act, and the State workforce investment board;

(8)

[ (6) advise the commission and ] provide for coordination and the establishment of working relationships between the commission and the Statewide Independent Living Council and centers for independent living within the state; and

(9)

[ (7) ] perform such other functions consistent with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, as the State Rehabilitation council determines to be appropriate that are comparable to other functions performed by the council.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 26, 1999.

TRD-9904476

Charles Schiesser

Chief of Staff

Texas Rehabilitation Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 116. Advisory Committees/Council

40 TAC §§116.3, 116.4, 116.5, 116.8

The Texas Rehabilitation Commission (TRC) proposes amendments to §§116.3, 116.4, 116.5 and 116.8, concerning Advisory Committees/Councils.

The sections are being amended because changes are required by amendments to the Rehabilitation Act.

Charles E. Harrison, Jr., Deputy Commissioner for Financial Services, 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.

Mr. Harrison 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 to include grants within the appeal rules for contracts. 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 Roger Darley, Assistant General Counsel, Texas Rehabilitation Commission, 4900 North Lamar Boulevard, Suite 7300, Austin, Texas 78751.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Human Resources Code, Title 7, Chapter 111, §111.018 and §111.023, which provides the Texas Rehabilitation Commission with the authority to promulgate rules consistent with Title 7, Texas Human Resources Code.

No other statute, article, or code is affected by this proposal.

§116.3.Statewide Independent Living Council.

(a)-(c)

(No change.)

(d)

Reports. The council shall submit to the federal government such periodic reports as the federal government may reasonably request, and keep such records as the federal government finds necessary to verify such reports. The council will report to the TRC Board at least annually on the council's actions and the results of the council's work.

(e)-(f)

(No change.)

§116.4.Medical Consultation Advisory Committee.

(a)-(c)

(No change.)

(d)

Reports. The committee serves in a consultative role to the commissioner and reports directly to the commissioner following committee meetings and as otherwise directed by the commissioner. The committee will report to the Board at least annually on the committee's activities and on the results of the committee's work.

(e)-(f)

(No change.)

§116.5.Community Rehabilitation Programs Advisory Committee.

(a)

Legal basis. The Community Rehabilitation Programs Advisory Committee is created pursuant to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, 29 United States Code §701 et seq., and the Texas Human Resources Code, §111 et seq. Federal law requires that the commission utilize community rehabilitation programs [ to the maximum extent feasible ] to promote integration and competitive employment and that the commission assess the capacity and effectiveness of community rehabilitation programs.

(b)

Purpose. The Community Rehabilitation Programs Advisory Committee advises the Texas Rehabilitation Commission regarding utilization and assessment of and fees for the services provided by community rehabilitation programs.

(c)

Tasks. The committee advises the commission regarding:

(1)

utilization of community rehabilitation programs to the maximum extent feasible;

(2)

establishing and monitoring of standards for the services provided by community rehabilitation programs; [ and ]

(3)

assessing the capacity and effectiveness of community rehabilitation programs ; and

(4)

the fees paid by the commission for community rehabilitation program services .

(d)

Reports. The committee provides recommendations to the commission in periodic reports to the deputy commissioner for [ rehabilitation services ] field and external operations. The committee will report to the Board at least annually on the committee's activities and on the results of the committee's work .

(e)-(f)

(No change.)

§116.8.Comprehensive Rehabilitation Advisory Committee.

(a)

(No change.)

(b)

Purpose. The purpose of the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Advisory Committee is to advise the commissioner regarding the development and implementation of the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Program to assist individuals with [ closed head ] traumatic brain injuries and traumatic spinal cord injuries as described in Chapter 113 of this title (relating to Comprehensive Medical Rehabilitation).

(c)

(No change.)

(d)

Reports. The committee serves in a consultative role to the commission and reports to the commissioner following committee meetings and as otherwise directed by the commissioner. The committee will report to the TRC board at least annually on the committee's actions and the results of the committee's work.

(e)-(f)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 26, 1999.

TRD-9904475

Charles Schiesser

Chief of Staff

Texas Rehabilitation Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Part VII. Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities

Chapter 189. Purchases of Products and Services from People with Disabilities

1. INTRODUCTION

The Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities proposes amendments to §189.7, new §§189.8-189.11 and repeal to §§189.8-189.11, concerning the contracting with a central nonprofit agency, the selection of a nonprofit agency and the performance standards for a nonprofit agency. The proposed amendments will change Chapter 189 with respect to contracting and selecting a central nonprofit agency for the state use program under Chapter 122, Human Resources Code. In addition, there will be clearly published performance standards that the central nonprofit agency shall meet.

2. FISCAL NOTE

Dr. Robert A. Swerdlow, Chairman, Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities, has determined that for the first five year period these rules are in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of implementing these amendments.

3. PUBLIC BENEFIT/COST NOTE

Dr. Swerdlow further determines that for each year of the first five-year period the amendments are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing these rules will be a clearer understanding of the program provided by the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

4. REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT

Comments on the proposals may be submitted to Chester S. Beattie, Jr., Legal Counsel, General Services Commission, P.O. Box 13047, Austin, Texas 78711-3047. Comments must be received no later than 30 days from the date of publication of the proposal to the Texas Register .

40 TAC §§189.7, 189.8, 189.9, 189.10, 189.11

5. STATUTORY AUTHORITY

The amendments are proposed under the authority of the Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 122, Section 122.013 which provides the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities with the authority to promulgate rules consistent with the code.

6. CROSS REFERENCE TO STATUTE

The following statute is affected by these rules: Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 122.

§189.7.Contracting with Central Nonprofit Agency(ies).

(a)

The council shall contract with a central nonprofit agency(ies) to perform, at a minimum, the duties set forth in §122.019(a)(b) of Chapter 122.

(b)

The management fee rate charged by a central nonprofit agency(ies) for its services to the CRP(s) must be approved by the council. The maximum management fee rate must be:

(1)

computed as a percentage of the selling price of the product; or

(2)

computed as a percentage of the contract price of a service; and

(3)

[ must be ] included in the selling price or contract price; and

(4)

[ must be ] paid at the time of sale.

(c)

A percentage of the management fee described in subsection (b) of this section shall be set by the council and paid to the council in an amount necessary to reimburse the general revenue fund for direct and reasonable costs incurred by the commission in administering its duties under Chapter 122.

(d)

In accordance with §122.019(c)(d) of Chapter 122, the council shall, at least annually, review services by a central nonprofit agency(ies) and the revenue required to accomplish the program to determine whether performance complies with contractual specifications and performance standards as provided in §189.9 and accomplishes the council's objectives.

(e)

The council shall contract with the CNA(s) for a period of five years. At least once during each two year period of the five year contract, the council shall review the CNA(s) performance as stated in §189.7 (d) to determine whether the CNA has fulfilled all of its responsibilities under the contract and decide on continuance of the contract. [ The council shall contract with the CNA(s) for periods of 12 months. Contracts may be extended with or without amendments for one additional 12 month period. At any time during the 24 month period, but not later than the end of the 24 months, the council must enter into a new contract with the CNA(s). ]

(f)

Not later than the 60th day before the date the council adopts or renews a contract, the council shall publish notice of the proposed contract in the Texas Register .

(g)

The CNA(s) will provide to the Council, on or before October 15th of each year, the following information regarding CRP(s) which have contracted with a CNA, for the period of July 1st through June 30th of each year. [ the following information for the period of July 1st through June 30th of each year. ]

(1)

Sheltered Workshops.

(A)

the number of disabled persons employed by type of disability at sheltered workshops managed by the CRP(s);

(B)

the amount of annual wages paid to disabled employees in sheltered workshops;

(C)

a summary of the sale of products offered by the CRP(s);

(D)

a list of products and/or services offered by a CRP; and

(E)

the geographic distribution of CRP(s).

(2)

Individual Outplacement or Supported Employment.

(A)

the number of individuals in outplacement employed;

(B)

the hourly wage range;

(C)

the range of hours worked; and

(D)

the number of disabled persons employed by primary type of disability.

§189.8. Selection Process for a Central Nonprofit Agency (CNA(s)).

In accordance with §189.7, the council may:

(1)

approve the performance of the CNA(s) under the contract and continue the term of the contract with the reviewed CNA(s) or, if the five year term is concluded, renegotiate a new five-year term contract with that CNA(s); or

(2)

disapprove the performance of the reviewed CNA(s), terminate the contract with that CNA and enter into a new contract with another CNA(s) procured in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle D, Government Code. Not later than the 60th day before the council continues the term contract, negotiates a new five-year term contract, or enters into a new contract with another CNA(s), the council shall publish such notice(s) as required by Texas law.

(3)

If a CNA(s) under contract to the council ceases operations under this chapter or breaches the contract, the council may enter into a new contract with another CNA(s) procured in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle D, Government Code.

§ 189.9. Performance Standards for a Central Nonprofit Agency (CNA(s)).

(a)

The CNA(s) shall meet the following performance standards in carrying out the terms and conditions of the contract.

(b)

The CNA(s) must manage and coordinate the day-to-day operation of the State Use Program including, but not limited to:

(1)

meet interim payroll for six (6) weeks on a continual basis

(2)

market State Use products and services to existing and potential customers

(3)

research and develop existing and new products and services

(4)

provide superior customer relations by monitoring customer satisfaction of services, and products and by responding to customer complaints within one business day or less

(5)

provide public relations duties by promoting State Use products and services

(6)

recruit new community rehabilitation programs

(7)

provide training to community rehabilitation programs

(8)

resolve contract issues and/or problems as they arise between the community rehabilitation program and customers of the program, referring those that cannot be rehabilitation program and customers of the program and referring those that cannot be resolved to the council

(9)

provide an annual report that includes audited financial statements, an updated strategic plan, and an updated Projected Schedule of Expenses that details how the management fee is being allocated to directly support the state use program and what amount is being devoted to expanding direct services to programs that enhance the disabled and what percentage of funds will be used for administrative overhead, such as salaries

(10)

demonstrate compliance with state and federal tax laws and payroll laws

(11)

provide accounting services related to purchase orders, invoice and payments for a major program that exceeds $44 million annually

(12)

work cooperatively with state and community leaders to promote products and services

(13)

conduct business ethically

(14)

follow the directives of the council, including other actions requested but not listed in the statute

(15)

promote and train for outplacement/supported employment for increased employment outcomes

(16)

create goals that support objectives set by the council

(17)

maintain excellent interagency and intra-agency communication skills and capabilities

(18)

maintain an automated system that tracks and monitors product and service sales

(19)

respond to inquiries about individual sales and/or total sales within five (5)business days or sooner

(20)

maintain a quality assurance system that monitors customer satisfaction with products and providing a response to customer complaints within five (5)business days or less

(21)

maintain knowledge of governmental contracting and procurement processes and laws

(22)

provide general administration of all State Use contracts and purchase orders and

(23)

maintain all necessary records for audit purposes that are in accordance with the law and directives set forth by the council.

(c)

Performance in Accordance with the council's Strategic Plan The CNA(s) must administer the State Use program in accordance with the standards set forth in the Strategic Plan for the council.

(d)

Performance and Problem Tracking Problems will be tracked and corrected to avoid damages being incurred. Should damages occur they are to be resolved based on an amount necessary to resolve the complaints.

(e)

Reports The CNA(s) will provide the council with a detailed report that contains information about new products and service contracts and renewed service contracts at least three weeks prior to each quarterly council meeting.

§189.10.Product Specifications and Exceptions.

(a)

A product manufactured for sale through the commission to any office, department, institution or agency of the state shall be manufactured or produced according to specifications developed by the commission. If the commission has not developed specifications for a particular product, the production shall be based on commercial or federal specifications in current use by the industry.

(b)

Requisitions for products and/or services required by state agencies are processed by the commission according to commission rules.

(c)

Exception from subsection (a) of this section may be made in any case as follows:

(1)

under the rules of the commission, the product and/or service so produced or provided does not meet the reasonable requirements of the office, department, institution, or agency; or

(2)

the requisitions made cannot be reasonably complied with through provision of products and/or services produced by persons with disabilities.

(d)

An office, department, institution, or agency may not evade purchasing products and/or services produced or provided by persons with disabilities by requesting variations from standards adopted by the commission when the products and/or services produced or provided by persons with disabilities, per established standards, are reasonably adapted to the actual needs of the office, department, institution, or agency.

(e)

The commission shall provide the council with a list of items purchased under the exceptions provided in subsection (b) of this section monthly, in the format adopted by the council.

§189.11.Determination of Fair Market Value.

(a)

Pursuant to §122.008 of Chapter 122 and §2155.441 of the Texas Government Code, a suitable product and/or service that meets applicable specifications and that is available within the time specified must be procured from a CRP at the price determined by the council to be the fair market price.

(b)

The pricing subcommittee shall review products, services and price revisions submitted by the CNA(s) on behalf of participating or prospective CRP(s). Due consideration shall be given to the factors set forth in § 122.015 and other criteria which is necessary to determine the fair market price of the products and/or services.

(c)

The pricing subcommittee shall recommend its decisions regarding products, services and price revisions to the full council for formal action.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 26, 1999.

TRD-9904472

Judy Ponder

General Counsel

Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 463-3244


40 TAC §§189.8, 189.9, 189.10, 189.11

(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 Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

STATUTORY AUTHORITY

The repeals are proposed under the authority of the Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 122, Section 122.013 which provides the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities with the authority to promulgate rules consistent with the code.

CROSS REFERENCE TO STATUTE

The following statute is affected by these rules: Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 122.

§189.8.Selection Process for a Central Nonprofit Agency (CNA(s)).

§189.9.Performance Standards for a Central Nonprofit Agency (CNA(s)).

§189.10.Product Specifications and Exceptions.

§189.11.Determination of Fair Market Value.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 26, 1999.

TRD-9904473

Judy Ponder

General Counsel

Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 463-3244


Part VIII. Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Chapter 201. Council Administration: Policies and Procedures

The Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council proposes the repeal of §§201.1, 201.3, 201.6, 201.7, and amendments to §§201.8, 201.9, and 201.10 concerning Council Administration: Policies and Procedures.

Section 201.1 is being repealed. The section is out-of date and is repetitive of CTF's enabling legislation, therefore it is repetitive of agency statute and not an appropriate subject of an agency rule.

Section 201.3 is being repealed. Subsection (a) largely tracks CTF's enabling legislation, therefore it is repetitive of agency statute and not an appropriate subject of an agency rule. Subsections (b) and (c) lack a proper statutory basis.

Section 201.6 is being repealed. This section involves the internal organization of the agency and incorrectly states the law regarding the executive director's employment status.

Section 201.7 is being repealed. This section is a restatement of CTF's enabling legislation, therefore it is repetitive of agency statute and not an appropriate subject of an agency rule.

Section 201.8 is amended to reflect the correct reference to the Open Meetings Act (Government Code, Chapter 551). Subsections (a), (c), (g), and (i), and (k) are repealed. These subsections mirror applicable statutory law. Also, subsection (d) is repealed. The Open Meetings Act, not a rule, determines when an agency is authorized to go into executive session.

Section 201.9 is retained but amended by adding a new paragraph (6) as follows: "adoption of substantive or procedural rules, " to clarify to board members what actions require Council approvals.

Section 201.10 subsection (b) is repealed because it is a restatement of existing law, therefore it is repetitive of agency statute and not an appropriate subject of an agency rule. Additionally the statutory citation is out-of-date.

Mr. Richard Hermann, Director of Finance, has determined that for the first five year period there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the sections as proposed. There will be no foreseeable cost reductions to the state or to local governments, no net effect on revenues as a result of enforcing and administering the rules, and no foreseeable implications relating to costs or revenues to the state or to local governments associated with implementing the rules.

Mr. Hermann also has determined that for each year of the first five year period that the rules are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rules as proposed will be a cleaner version of already existing rules. There will be no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no anticipated impact on local employment.

Comments should be directed to Sarah Winkler, Director of Education, Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council, 1884 Highway 71, Cedar Creek, Texas 78612.

40 TAC §§201.1, 201.3, 201.6, 201.7

(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 Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §74.003 subsection (a)(11), which grants general rulemaking authority.

The following statues are affected by the proposed repeals: Human Resources Code, Chapter 74, Section 74.001, 74.002 and 74.003

§201.1.The Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council.

§201.3.Membership.

§201.6.Executive Director.

§201.7.Council Activities.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 19, 1999.

TRD-9904348

Janie D. Fields, MPA

Executive Director

Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 303-5061


40 TAC §§201.8, 201.9, 201.10

The amendments are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §74.003 subsection (a)(11), which grants general rulemaking authority.

The following statutes are affected by the proposed amendments: Human Resources Code, Chapter 74, Section 74.002 and 74.003

§201.8.Meetings.

[ (a)

Regular meetings. The Council will meet a minimum of two (2) times per year.]

(a)

[ (b) ] Special meetings. Special meetings may be called by the chairperson at a time and location designated in a notice of the meeting.

[ (c)

Open meetings. All Council meetings are subject to the requirements of the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6252-17. Regular and special meetings of the Council shall be open to the public.]

[ (d)

Executive sessions. Executive sessions of the Council are meetings with only Council members and invited persons present and are subject to the following requirements under the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Civil Statutes, Article 6252-17.]

[ (1)

Executive sessions are held only to consider the following items as provided by law:]

[ (A)

involving the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee or to hear complaints or charges against such officer or employee, unless such officer or employee requests a public hearing;]

[ (B)

with respect to the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property and negotiated contracts for prospective gifts or donations to the state or the governmental body, when such discussion would have a detrimental effect on the negotiation position of the Council as between the Council and a third person, firm, or corporation;]

[ (C)

regarding the deployment, or specific occasions for implementation of security personnel or devices; or]

[ (D)

in private consultations between a governmental body and its attorney, in instances in which the Council seeks the attorney's advice with respect to pending or contemplated litigation, settlement offers, and matters where the duty of the Council's legal counsel to his/her client, pursuant to the Code of Professional Responsibility of the State Bar of Texas, clearly conflicts with applicable statutory provisions.]

[ (2)

For any meeting that is closed to the public, except for consultations in accordance with paragraph (1)(D) of this subsection, the Council will take one of the following actions.]

[ (A)

The Council shall keep an agenda of the proceedings certified by the presiding officer that each agenda is a true and correct record of such proceedings. The certified agenda shall:]

[ (i)

include an announcement by the presiding officer at the beginning and end of the closed session or meeting indicating date and time, and]

[ (ii)

state the subject matter of each deliberation.]

[ (B)

In lieu of the certified agenda requirement of subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, the Council may make a tape recording of the proceedings which shall include an announcement made by the presiding officer at the opening and closing of the meeting indicating the date and time.]

(b)

[ (e) ] Notice of meeting. The notice of meetings shall be published in the Texas Register in accordance with state requirements.

(c)

[ (f) ] Agendas. The chairperson will approve the official agenda, which will be distributed the day of the meeting. Any matter may be placed on the agenda for consideration by the written request of three members of the Council within 30 days of a regular or special meeting.

[ (g)

Quorum. Five members will constitute a quorum.]

(d)

[ (h) ] Rules of order. The Council will use Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, except that the chairperson may vote on any action as any other member of the Council, and any other exception as provided in Council management policies or by statute.

[ (i)

Minutes. Official minutes are retained by the state office of the CTF Council and the Texas Legislative Reference Library.]

(e)

[ (j) ] Public participation. The public may participate in the Council's scheduled meetings by personal appearance in accordance with accepted rules of order and as determined by the chairperson and the executive director or by submitting written comments.

[ (k)

Dissents. A Council member may enter a written statement into the official minutes to reflect opposition to any action taken at a meeting by the Council majority.]

(f)

[ (l) ] Public statements. When making public statements concerning matters under the jurisdiction of the Council, members will not imply that their individual opinions reflect the official position or policy of the Council.

§201.9.Actions Requiring Council Approval.

Council approval is required for the following actions:

(1)-(3)

(No change.)

(4)

when required by law, requested by the executive director, or desired by the Council; [ or ]

(5)

issuance of a formal public statement reflecting the opinion or policy of the Council ; or [ . ]

(6)

adoption of substantive or procedural rules.

§201.10.Relationship Between Council and Private Organizations and Donors.

[ (a)

Authority and purpose. ] These rules are proposed under the provisions of Human Resources Code, Chapter 74, whereby the Council may apply for and receive funds made available by the federal or state government or by another public or private source, which funds may be designated and expended for administrative purposes or for grants for child abuse and neglect prevention programs, and which may be deposited in either the Trust Fund [ trust fund ] or the Operating Fund [ operating fund ], as appropriate. The Council may solicit donations for child abuse and neglect prevention programs and public information and education activities.

[ (b)

Standards of Conduct]

[ (1)

Standards of conduct of members and employees of the Council are governed by Article 6252-9B, Texas Civil Statutes.]

[ (2)

No member or employee of the Council should accept or solicit any gift, favor, or service that might reasonably tend to influence him or her in the discharge of favor, or service that might reasonably tend to influence him or her in the discharge of official duties or that he or she knows or should know is being offered with the intent to influence him/her with the intent to influence his or her official contributions from individuals or organizations under contract with the Council.]

[ (3)

No member or employee of the Council should accept employment or engage in any business or professional activity which he or she might reasonably expect would require or induce him or her to disclose confidential information acquired by reason of his or her official position.]

[ (4)

No member or employee of the Council should accept other employment or compensations which could reasonably be expected to impair his or her independence or judgment in the performance of his or her official duties.]

[ (5)

No member or employee of the Council should make personal investments which could reasonably be expected to create a substantial conflict between his or her private interest and the public interest.]

[ (6)

No member or employee of the Council should intentionally or knowingly solicit, accept, or agree to accept any benefit for having exercised his or her official powers or performed his or her official duties in favor of another.]

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 19, 1999.

TRD-9904349

Janie D. Fields, MPA

Executive Director

Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 303-5061


Chapter 202. Funded Program Awards and Contracts

The Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council proposes amendments to §§202.6, 202.8, and 202.10 and proposes the repeal of §202.9, concerning Funded Program Awards and Contracts.

Section 202.6 subsection (a) is amended to delete a delivery address that is no longer available.

Section 202.8 subsection (f) is amended by including a description of the confidentiality guidelines that are referred to in the current rule. By adding the guidelines, applicants will have adequate guidance without going to another source.

Section 202.10 amends subsection (a) to reflect the amendment to Human Resources Code, §74.010, which authorizes more than two extensions under certain circumstances as determined by the Council and defines those circumstances.

Section 202.9 is being repealed because of the conflict of interest provisions concerning internal policies and are not the proper subject for rules. They will be transferred to the Policies and Procedures Manual.

Mr. Richard Hermann, Director of Finance, has determined that for the first five year period there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the sections as proposed. There will be no foreseeable cost reductions to the state or to local governments, no net effect on revenues as a result of enforcing and administering the rules, and no foreseeable implications relating to costs or revenues to the state or to local governments associated with implementing the rules.

Mr. Hermann also has determined that for each year of the first five year period that the rules are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rules as proposed will be a cleaner version of already existing rules. There will be no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no anticipated impact on local employment.

Comments should be directed to Sarah Winkler, Director of Education, Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council, 1884 Highway 71, Cedar Creek, Texas 78612.

40 TAC §§202.6, 202.8, 202.10

The amendments are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §74.003 subsection (a)(11), which grants general rulemaking authority.

The following statute is affected by the proposed amendments: Human Resources Code, Chapter 74, Section 74.003. Powers and duties.

§202.6.Application Requirements and Proposal Submission.

(a)

Proposal format. The Council adopts by reference the document entitled Request for Proposal (RFP), that is periodically updated and published by Council staff. Copies are available upon request from the Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council. [ P. O. Box 160610, Austin, Texas 78716-0610. ]

(b)

Format content. The format consists of the forms and related material that the applicant will complete to apply to receive funds to perform services.

(1)

The format included in the application package shall be used.

(2)

Substantially incomplete proposals will not be considered.

(3)

Proposals received after the closing date will not be considered.

§202.8.Project Approval.

(a)-(e)

(No change).

(f)

A contractor who provides direct client services must comply with confidentiality guidelines. All Contractors who provide direct client services must maintain confidential files on all participants who receive those services. All program staff including instructors must review confidentiality guidelines set forth by the agency prior to employment. Participants may sign a release of information upon entry into a program. Names, addresses, phone numbers and other identifying information must not be released to anyone without the participant's prior written approval.

(g)-(h)

(No change.)

§202.10.Renewal Funding.

(a)

Renewal of a grant is not automatic. Grants may be renewed twice for a total contract period of three years at the Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council's (CTF's) option, when authorized by the CTF Council, and when it is in the best interest of the CTF Council. A Program may be eligible for renewal a third time as determined by the CTF Council under certain circumstances which include but are not limited to funding availability, proven program success, and demonstrated community support.

(b)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 19, 1999.

TRD-9904350

Janie D. Fields, MPA

Executive Director

Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 303-5061


40 TAC §202.9

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The repeal is adopted under the Human Resources Code, §74.003 subsection (a)(11), which grants general rulemaking authority.

The following statute is affected by the proposed repeal: Human Resources Code Chapter 74, Section 74.009.

§202.9.Conflict of Interest.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 19, 1999.

TRD-9904351

Janie D. Fields, MPA

Executive Director

Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 303-5061


Chapter 203. Advisory Committees

40 TAC §§203.1-203.5

(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 Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council proposes the repeal of Chapter 203, concerning Advisory Committees.

Both advisory committees have expired therefore the entire chapter must be repealed.

Mr. Richard Hermann, Director of Finance, has determined that for the first five year period there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the repeals as proposed. There will be no foreseeable cost reductions to the state or to local governments, no net effect on revenues as a result of repealing the rules, and no foreseeable implications relating to costs or revenues to the state or to local governments associated with the repeal of the rules.

Mr. Hermann also has determined that for each year of the first five year period that the rules are in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the repeals as proposed will be the removal of obsolete rule language for the agency's standards. There will be no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no anticipated impact on local employment.

Comments should be directed to Sarah Winkler, Director of Education, Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council, 1884 Highway 71, Cedar Creek, Texas 78612.

The repeals are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §74.003 subsection (a)(11), which grants general rulemaking authority.

The following statute is affected by the proposed repeals: Human Resources Code, Chapter 74, Section 74.003. Powers and duties.

§203.1.Purpose.

§203.2.Definitions.

§203.3.Advisory Committees.

§203.4.CTF Fiscal Advisory Committee.

§203.5.CTF Public Awareness Advisory Committee.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on July 19, 1999.

TRD-9904352

Janie D. Fields, MPA

Executive Director

Children's Trust Fund of Texas Council

Earliest possible date of adoption: September 5, 1999

For further information, please call: (512) 303-5061