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46 Document(s) [ Subject: Veterans ]

Committee:	House Culture, Recreation, and Tourism
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Battleship Texas | Commission on the Arts, Texas | Coronavirus | Fishing | Historical Commission, Texas | Hunting | Hunting licenses | Inflation | Parks and Wildlife, Texas Department of | State parks | Tourism | Veterans | Workforce |
Library Call Number:	L1836.87 R245
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [34 pages  File size: 1,697 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following: HB 1728, 87th R.S., relating to partnerships between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and nonprofit entities to promote hunting and fishing by certain veterans; and HB 3081, 87th R.S., which relates to the issuance of digital tags for the taking of certain animals.
2.	Review the overall state of Texas' travel, tourism and hospitality industry. Make recommendations for statutory and regulatory changes to ensure industry resiliency and vitality. Consider the following: Access to federal recovery programs and efforts that enable the draw-down of federal funding; Improvement of workforce reliability; and Use of the supplemental money appropriated to the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism through SB 8, 87th 3rd C.S.
3.	Review state efforts to preserve and develop Texas state parks and open spaces to ensure affordable public access to outdoor recreational and educational opportunities.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Mental health services | Military families | Operation Lone Star (Border security) | Post-traumatic stress disorder | Public Safety, Texas Department of | Texas National Guard | Texas State Guard | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [50 pages  File size: 3,879 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the activities of the Texas State Guard and the Texas National Guard participating in Operation Lone Star. Consider any legal or logistical support that can be provided to these organizations to increase operational efficiencies in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety. Review and assess the inventory of these agencies. Make appropriate recommendations. (Joint charge with Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety)
2.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation.
3.	Examine programs and funding streams connected to services that improve mental health outcomes for servicemen and women suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
4.	Evaluate the needs of veterans and their families as they return to civilian life, including access to employment, education, housing, counseling, and mental health services. Make recommendations to ensure coordination between state agencies to create a positive environment for veterans transitioning back into communities across the state.
Committee:	House Higher Education
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Financial investments | Foreign investments | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program | Investment of public funds | Job training programs | Permanent University Fund | Russia | School discipline | Student aid | Teacher retention | Teacher retirement | Teacher Retirement System of Texas | Teacher shortages | Teacher training | University finance | Veterans | Workforce |
Library Call Number:	L1836.88 Ed84hh
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [98 pages  File size: 10,030 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following: SB 1102, 87th R.S. relating to the establishment of the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Program to support workforce education; and SB 1295, 87th R.S. relating to financial support and incentives for comprehensive regional universities.
2.	Review progress toward the goals of the 60x30TX plan, including institutional strategies for responding to changing workforce needs and demands, including workforce education, industry certification, and degree programs to address healthcare shortages.
3.	Examine factors that have contributed to the rising costs of higher education, including the effect of statutory tuition and fee waivers and exemptions, the cost of compliance with state and federal mandates, and the increase in the number of non-faculty staff. Make recommendations for controlling these costs and ensuring a sound fiscal approach to managing college affordability for the future.
4.	Evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the state’s teacher workforce and current practices to improve the recruitment, preparation, and retention of high-quality educators. Explore the impact of the educator preparation program regulatory environment. Make recommendations to improve educator recruitment, retention, and preparation throughout the state. (Joint Charge with Committee on Public Education)
5.	Review the impact of investments of endowment and other trust funds, including the Permanent University Fund, by university systems and institutions of higher education in businesses and funds owned or controlled by the Russian government or Russian nationals, and determine the need for investment restrictions. Consider the impact of any proposed investment restrictions on fund performance.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Affordable housing | General Land Office, Texas | Homelessness | Law enforcement | Mental health services | Mentally ill persons | Post-traumatic stress disorder | Privatization | Veterans | Veterans cemeteries | Veterans health care | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:	L1836.87 V641
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [26 pages  File size: 523 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	State Veteran Cemeteries: Evaluate the current oversight of the Texas State Veteran Cemeteries to ensure that these sacred and essential grounds are being maintained, repaired, and treated with respect. Ensure that the needs of our veterans are being met by reviewing the number, location, and funding of the cemeteries. Examine and make recommendations for the financing mechanism for the Texas State Veterans Cemeteries to ensure sustainability.
2.	Veteran Benefits: Explore and report on options to remove barriers for companies offering veteran benefits and consider policies that could leverage additional public-private-partnerships. Identify opportunities to connect veterans to existing business resources and available state services. Recommend ways to increase matching federal funding for veteran benefits. Review current law for consistency in eligibility for state veteran benefits and recommend any necessary changes.
3.	Veteran Mental Health: Review the currently accepted forms of treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and consider the creation of a program which would require completion of a multi-modality treatment plan including traditional talk therapy, limbic system therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and emotionally focused individual therapy (EFIT).
4.	Veteran Mental Health: Identify the training and resources available to urban and rural first responders when assisting veterans experiencing a mental health crisis. Make recommendations for how to best support first responders in these crisis situations.
Committee:	House Corrections
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Criminal justice | Criminal Justice, Texas Department of | Driving while intoxicated | Foster care | Homelessness | Parole | Prisons | Probation | Recidivism | Senior citizens | Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas | Women inmates |
Library Call Number:	L1836.86 C817
Session:	86th R.S. (2019)
Online version:	View report [63 pages  File size: 2,182 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 86th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following: HB 374, 86th R.S., which relates to meetings or visits between a defendant on community supervision and a supervision officer. Monitor community supervision and corrections department rules regarding the scheduling of meetings or visits with a defendant placed on community supervision. Examine the process by which community supervision and corrections departments implement newly adopted policies. HB 650, 86th R.S. and HB 3227, 86th R.S., which relate to the welfare of confined females within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Monitor TDCJ rules regulating treatment of incarcerated women. Examine the process by which the department facilitates the educational, medical, and wellness needs of incarcerated pregnant women. HB 1191, 86th R.S., which relates to an annual report concerning the number of inmates who have been in the conservatorship of a state agency responsible for providing child protective services. Monitor the TDCJ's collection of statistical information concerning the total number of inmates who have at any time been in the conservatorship of a state agency responsible for providing child protective services. SB 1147, 86th R.S., which relates to conditions of community supervision for certain driving while intoxicated offenses. Monitor the implementation of the legislation and provide recommendations to improve access to treatment for defendants convicted of driving while intoxicated
2.	Examine gaps in services and assess efforts to connect justice-involved veterans, senior citizens, and homeless populations to services while incarcerated and after release at both the local and state levels. Specifically, the committee should evaluate training and technical assistance provided by the Texas Veterans Commission to criminal justice agencies. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs)
3.	Examine the current parole revocation warrant ("blue warrant") procedure. Specifically, the committee should consider the monetary costs to the counties; using Risk Assessment Instruments and the Offense Severity Scale to evaluate static and dynamic factors associated with an offender's record in order to escalate high-risk revocation offenders to the Department of Public Safety for immediate detention; and creating an online list providing the number of outstanding "blue warrants" pending per county.
4.	Evaluate funding provided to the TDCJ for the repair, maintenance, and upgrade of prison facilities. Determine areas of the facilities that are in most need of repair, maintenance, or upgrade and examine the costs associated with such repairs, maintenance, or upgrades. Examine the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee's administration of Hepatitis C treatment and procedures. Review the Community Justice Assistance Division's current compliance practices and examine current funding formulas for adult probation departments. Study the TDCJ's ownership of real property not being used for prison facilities, including the amount of property owned and its highest and best use. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
5.	Monitor the State Auditor's review of agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The Chair shall seek input and periodic briefings on completed audits for the 2019 and 2020 fiscal years and bring forth pertinent issues for full committee consideration.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	County jails | Homelessness | Mental health services | Military bases | Military Department, Texas | Senior citizens | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.86 D361
Session:	86th R.S. (2019)
Online version:	View report [88 pages  File size: 5,049 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 86th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following: HB 1326, which is the sunset legislation for the Texas Military Department. Examine the Adjutant General's policy outlining the director of state administration's responsibility for state administrative interests across all programs, including evaluating procedures for oversight of state employees and mitigating compliance risks.
2.	Study the mental health treatment options available for all Texas veterans, including efforts to fill gaps left by federal government. Make recommendations for future legislation streamlining mental health treatment coordination among federal, state, and local agencies.
3.	Study the potential impact of eliminating Regional Military Sustainability Commissions as an ineffective tool in assisting Texas military installations and their host defense communities with protecting the missions, operations, readiness, and resiliency of military installations. Identify new and enhanced strategies to replace the Commissions with land use limitations or restrictions, regulatory strategies, annexation powers, contractual agreements, or other tools to preserve military use areas inside and outside municipal boundaries.
4.	Examine gaps in services and assess efforts to connect justice-involved veterans, senior citizens, and homeless populations to services while incarcerated and after release at both the local and state levels. Specifically, the committee should evaluate training and technical assistance provided by the Texas Veterans Commission to criminal justice agencies. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Corrections)
5.	Review the connection between the economic vitality of business and industry and the economic vitality of our military veterans transitioning into the workforce. Specifically, the committee should analyze barriers to military veterans transitioning from active duty to civilian life, the effectiveness of government transition and training benefits, and current and ongoing demand for veteran and military spouse employment from industry in Texas. (Joint charge with the House Committee on International Relations & Economic Development)
6.	Monitor the State Auditor's review of agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The Chair shall seek input and periodic briefings on completed audits for the 2019 and 2020 fiscal years and bring forth pertinent issues for full committee consideration.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Border Security
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Law enforcement | Mental health services | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.86 V641
Session:	86th R.S. (2019)
Online version:	View report [57 pages  File size: 3,290 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Veteran Treatment Courts: Review the effectiveness of diverting veterans from the traditional criminal justice system to veteran treatment courts. Make recommendations to strengthen veteran treatment court outcomes and expand access to locations not currently served by the courts.
2.	Veteran Health Care: Examine the adequacy of long-term health care services and support options for veterans in Texas. Identify under-served areas and barriers to accessing quality care for both institutional as well as home and community based settings. Discuss the potential impact of federal reforms, such as the implementation of the Veterans Affairs MISSION Act on care delivery. Make recommendations to best leverage federal assistance and create greater efficiencies in veteran health care delivery.
3.	Veteran Mental Health: Review suicide prevention strategies and programs identified by the federal Defense Suicide Prevention Office and make recommendations to connect at-risk individuals with available resources as they transition into veteran status.
Committee:	Joint Aging
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Health care | Senior citizens | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 Ag48
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [16 pages]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Study issues relating to the aging population of Texas, including health care, income, transportation, housing, education, and employment; makes recommendations to address issues.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Aerospace industry | Base realignment and closure | Defense Economic Adjustment Assistant Grants | Emergency management | Homelessness | Hurricane Harvey | Mental health services | Military bases | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 D361
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [36 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Evaluate the impact of Hurricane Harvey related to the Texas Military Department, Emergency Management Council, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management. Recommend any changes that could improve operational stability and the reaction of these agencies following a natural disaster and changes that would allow for a more effective response.
2.	Assess ways the State of Texas can further aid federal military installations and their communities in order to minimize the negative consequences of a Base Realignment and Closure round by the federal government.
3.	Examine best practices related to use of the Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant program to maximize support for military installations, and how the state can better serve military installations in Texas. Also, evaluate changes that would increase utilization of the Texas Military Revolving Loan Fund.
4.	Study the economic impact of the aviation, aerospace, & defense manufacturing industry in Texas and the state's ability to facilitate industry job growth and investment. Review the relationship between the economic vitality of industry and military veterans transitioning into the workforce. Determine existing and potential barriers to the retention and expansion of the manufacturing industry in the state and the broader economic implications it may have on workforce readiness, as well as veteran employment and support services. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Economic & Small Business Development)
5.	Examine the needs of homeless veterans in Texas. Examine obstacles veterans may face finding housing across the state. Recommend measures to bolster the state's efforts to address veteran homelessness in Texas.
6.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 85th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, review the implementation of S.B. 27 (85R) and the related Veterans Mental Health Program, as well as S.B. 578 (85R) and the development of the Veterans Suicide Prevention Action Plan.
Committee:	House Opioids and Substance Abuse, Select
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Child Protective Services | Criminal justice | Drug courts | Drug rehabilitation programs | Emergency medical services | Homelessness | Juvenile justice system | Law enforcement | Mentally ill persons | Opioids | Penalties and sentences (Criminal justice) | Pregnancy | Prescription drugs | Specialty courts | State agencies | Substance abuse | Synthetic drugs | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 Op3
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [117 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the prevalence and impact of substance use and substance use disorders in Texas, including co-occurring mental illness. Study the prevalence and impact of opioids and synthetic drugs in Texas. Review the history of overdoses and deaths due to overdoses. Also review other health-related impacts due to substance abuse. Identify substances that are contributing to overdoses, related deaths and health impacts, and compare the data to other states. During the review, identify effective and efficient prevention and treatment responses by health care systems, including hospital districts and coordination across state and local governments. Recommend solutions to prevent overdoses and related health impacts and deaths in Texas.
2.	Review the prevalence of substance abuse and substance use disorders in pregnant women, veterans, homeless individuals, and people with co-occurring mental illness. In the review, study the impact of opioids and identify available programs specifically targeted to these populations and the number of people served. Consider whether the programs have the capacity to meet the needs of Texans. In addition, research innovative programs from other states that have reduced substance abuse and substance use disorders, and determine if these programs would meet the needs of Texans. Recommend strategies to increase the capacity to provide effective services.
3.	Review policies and guidelines used by state agencies to monitor for and prevent abuse of prescription drugs in state-funded or state-administered programs. Include in this review policies implemented by the Texas Medicaid Program, the Division of Workers’ Compensation of the Texas Department of Insurance, the Teacher Retirement System, and the Employee Retirement System. Make recommendations regarding best practices.
4.	Monitor and evaluate the implementation of legislation passed by the 85th Legislature regarding the Prescription Monitoring Program. In addition, review the prescribing of addictive drugs by physicians and other health care providers within various geographic regions of this state. Determine the role of health care professionals in preventing overutilization and diversion of addictive prescriptions. Provide recommendations that will improve efforts to prevent overutilization and diversion of addictive prescriptions.
5.	Identify how opioids have impacted the normal scope of work for law enforcement, first responders, and hospital emergency department personnel.
6.	Examine the impact of substance abuse and substance use disorders on Texans who are involved in the adult or juvenile criminal justice system and/or the Child Protective Services system. Identify barriers to treatment and the availability of treatment in various areas of the state. Recommend solutions to improve state and local policy, including alternatives to justice system involvement, and ways to increase access to effective treatment and recovery options.
7.	Examine the impact of overdose reporting defense laws known as "Good Samaritan" laws.
8.	Identify the specialty courts in Texas that specialize in substance use disorders. Determine the effectiveness of these courts and consider solutions to increase the number of courts in Texas.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Opioids and Substance Abuse, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 17, 2018 (Overview of opioids and substance abuse, prevalence of substance use disorders in special populations, review of policies and guidelines of state agencies, opioids and substance abuse impact on children and foster care).
Library Call Number:
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View document [140 pages  File size: 7,655 kb]
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Border Security
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Aerospace industry | Border issues | Border Patrol, U.S. | Border security | Human trafficking | Invasive species | Military bases | Military personnel | Peace officers | Physical fitness | Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 V641
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [41 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Border Security - Law Enforcement: Study and make recommendations on opportunities to create public safety partnerships. Consider the federal 287(g) program and any needs of a state or local jurisdiction when entering in a Memorandum of Agreement for receiving delegated federal authority. Review cross training programs offered in other states that allow U.S. Border Patrol agents to be certified as state peace officers, and determine if Texas could create such a program.
2.	Border - Invasive Species: Study and make recommendations on the impact to border security caused by invasive plant species, such as carrizo cane and salt cedar. Review proposals for eradication of invasive plant species that provide a natural shelter for human trafficking and/or smuggling arms and illicit substances.
3.	Veterans Health: Study the effectiveness of veterans' health and mental health initiatives in Texas and recommend ways to improve access and delivery. Explore the state of the federal VA Choice Program, including potential expiration, continuation, or expansion of the program. Consider the impact of the VA Choice Program on improving the delivery of health care, and determine ways to raise awareness and increase participation among Texas veterans. Consider the potential connection between chronic pain and mental health and identify strategies to improve the prevention of veteran suicide.
4.	State-Delivered Federal Services: Review the veteran services offered by the United States Department of Veteran Affairs and Veteran Benefits Administration. Study those services which are being delivered by the Texas Veterans Commission, including but not limited to the state strike force teams and health care advocacy program. Consider ways to increase utilization of automated services, such as the Texas Veterans App, to reduce the need for additional staff time and to create a resource for veterans to access services at all times of the day.
5.	Military Installation: Identify opportunities to promote the strategic importance of military installations in Texas. Study the impact of the Aviation, Aerospace & Defense manufacturing industry on the economic vitality of military installations and communities. Identify potential strategic partnerships between this industry and military communities which would enhance key strategic assets.
6.	Military Youth Readiness: Evaluate the current readiness and fitness of Texas youth for entering military service over the next 5-10 years. Identify any additional economic impact to the state should youth not meet physical requirements or required academic performance.
7.	Monitoring: Monitor the implementation and impact of legislation passed by the Texas Legislature. Make recommendations for any needed improvements or steps to ensure completion. • SB 27 by Campbell 85(R), relating to the mental health progra m for veterans; • SB 277 by Campbell 85(R), relating to ad valorem tax incentives for wind-powered energy devices near military aviation facilities; and • SB 389 by Rodriguez 84(R, relating to the addition of military occupational specialty codes on state agency employment listings.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Base realignment and closure | Federal funds | Hazlewood Act | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | Real estate agents | Student aid | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 D361
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [122 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Explore how encroachment (environmental, technological, and architectural) impacts the vital missions of our military bases in Texas and which policies can be put into place while retaining respect for private property rights, economic growth, and the operation of military facilities.
2.	Explore adding notifications to the Texas Real Estate Commission Seller Disclosure Form, as well as a notification to buyers of new home construction, in order to inform buyers that a property may be located near a military installation or a military airport and could be affected by high noise or its air installation compatible use zones, or other operations.
3.	Study the long-term viability of the Hazlewood Act, in particular the legacy tuition exemption provision. Review eligibility requirements and recommend changes to ensure that the program can remain solvent. Examine the costs of the program to institutions of higher education, including foregone tuition, additional infrastructure, administrative and instructional support costs, and the financial impact on nonveteran/legacy students. Analyze and report any effect changes to this program would have for veterans and their families. Review current data systems related to this exemption and recommend improvements to ensure quality and accuracy of information. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Higher Education)
4.	Assess ways the State of Texas can further aid our federal military installations and their communities in order to minimize the negative consequences of a potential forthcoming BRAC round by the federal government.
5.	Assess the continuing effect and the impact of sequestration and federal defense spending on Texas military bases, soldiers and their families, base communities, and Texas defense contractors. Identify solutions to address issues raised by federal policy.
6.	Analyze whether unnecessary, redundant or punitive barriers exist for Texas Veterans pursuing educational or occupational careers upon completion of their military service. Study and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to allow veterans to receive the maximum college credit benefit for their service-related training in the armed forces.
7.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee:	House Higher Education
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Community college finance | Community college students | Community colleges | Hazlewood Act | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Nontraditional students | Sex crimes | Student aid | Tuition | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 Ed84hh
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [100 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Conduct a review of current funding formulas for community colleges. Specifically, focus on the elements of the instructional funding structure created by the 83rd Legislature: core operations, student success points, and contact hour funding and also the adequacy of state funding to sustain community colleges in light of the variance in resources available to individual colleges. Make recommendations for possible changes to the funding structure of community colleges or changes in the levels of current funding given the future workforce and higher educational needs of the state. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
2.	Review the state's community college system, including a discussion of taxing districts, service areas and any barriers to access. Examine the governance structure to ensure that campuses in multi campus districts that are outside of a college taxing district receive fair and equitable treatment. Review the accounting and reporting requirements of community college districts to ensure open government and transparency. Study ways community colleges could offer accessible and affordable baccalaureate degree programs in areas where the state has a significant workforce shortage without compromising quality of education and training. Make recommendations to maximize efficient student pathways and to offer more affordable educational opportunities such as through dual credit and early college start programs.
3.	Study the affordability and accessibility of undergraduate college education in Texas, including a focus on middle-class students. Analyze the cost of attendance and tuition rates, comparing Texas institutions to their national peers. Review the availability and effectiveness of financial aid programs, and analyze student debt and default rates. Study and recommend ways to promote timely and cost efficient graduation.
4.	Study current policies and initiatives at institutions of higher education, including community colleges, and make recommendations toward the prevention and elimination of sexual assault on college campuses. Identify, evaluate, and recommend reporting mechanisms to ensure that students have safe, appropriate, and accessible avenues for reporting sexual assault. Study the existing campus support systems in place for students who are victims of assault, and provide recommendations of best practices. Evaluate the effectiveness of current policies and make recommendations to support the prevention and elimination of sexual assault at institutions of higher education in Texas.
5.	Study the long-term viability of the Hazlewood Act, in particular the legacy tuition exemption provision. Review eligibility requirements and recommend changes to ensure that the program can remain solvent. Examine the costs of the program to institutions of higher education, including foregone tuition, additional infrastructure, administrative and instructional support costs, and the financial impact on nonveteran/legacy students. Analyze and report any effect changes to this program would have for veterans and their families. Review current data systems related to this exemption and recommend improvements to ensure quality and accuracy of information. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Defense & Veterans’ Affairs)
6.	Review educational opportunities for non-traditional students, including adult learners who did not complete a secondary education credential. Recommend possible funding options to promote degree, credential, and/or certification completion. Develop recommendations to promote programs that simultaneously allow adult learners to complete degrees, credentials, and/or certifications for the purpose of promoting and increasing workforce ready graduates.
7.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature, including HB 700, SB 18, HB 100, and the new higher education strategic plan for Texas as proposed by the Higher Education Coordinating Board, 60x30TX. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Children's mental health | Homelessness | Mental health services | Rural health care | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 M528
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [117 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Review the behavioral health system, including substance abuse treatment, for adults and children. Make recommendations to improve the delivery and coordination of services to create an integrated system to improve early identification of mental illness, improve access and continuity of services, reduce barriers to treatment, and increase collaboration between entities responsible for the delivery of care in a manner that will ultimately reduce cost and improve care.
2.	Identify educational, healthcare, law enforcement, criminal justice, judiciary, state, county, and city entities that are statutorily or contractually responsible for the identification or delivery of behavioral health services. Review how the services are directly or indirectly connected and how the entities work together.
3.	Review entry points into the mental health system for both adults and children; how individuals gain access to services; what services are available; the effectiveness of services; and how to define, prioritize, measure, and improve outcomes achieved for adults and children.
4.	Identify local and state cost of mental health in Texas and identify measures to reduce cost to the overall system by improving care.
5.	Study and recommend solutions for the challenges within the current system, including, but not limited to, how to provide effective services in the short term and close gaps over the longer term in mental-health workforce shortage areas; access to appropriate mental health care for school-age children, including those identified through Mental Health First Aid training, to break the school to juvenile detention to prison pipeline; factors contributing to differences in communities’ access to law enforcement and Judges with specific mental health training; communities’ access to crises intervention and jail diversion services; communities’ ability to plan and coordinate between healthcare providers and systems, law enforcement, the judiciary, and the criminal justice systems to deliver and coordinate care; and the location and availability of inpatient treatment beds, including how the need for inpatient beds varies by the effectiveness of the entire system. Also, identify obstacles to adequate insurance coverage for mental health services.
6.	Identify the challenges of providing care and increasing access to veterans, homeless Texans, and individuals with serious mental illness.
7.	Examine challenges of providing services in underserved and rural areas of the state and in communities serving high numbers of Texans below 200% poverty level.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, February 18, 2016 (Mental health and behavioral health)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [181 pages  File size: 9,046 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, March 22, 2016 (Children and mental health)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [184 pages  File size: 11,847 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 27, 2016 (Mental health and behavioral health care)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [87 pages  File size: 4,917 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 28, 2016 (Mental health and behavioral health care)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [79 pages  File size: 4,218 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, June 2, 2016 (Insurance - coverage for collaborate care, representatives of commercial health plans and state employee health plans, Medicaid and CHIP; law enforcement/criminal justice)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [149 pages  File size: 6,864 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, August 18, 2016 (Homeless, substance abuse, and veteran services)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [156 pages  File size: 9,496 kb]
Committee:	House Mental Health, Select
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, September 22, 2016 (Mental health hospitals, mental health services - public institutions of higher ed)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [130 pages  File size: 6,254 kb]
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Alternatives to incarceration | County government | Courts | Hazlewood Act | Mental health services | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | State agencies | Suicide | Veterans | Veterans educational benefits | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 V641
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [59 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Strike Force, VA Health, Mental Health: Study the state of veteran health and mental health in Texas. Review the progress made by state strike force teams to reduce the claims backlog and decrease wait times at VA hospitals. Evaluate if the passage of the federal Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014 and other state initiatives have improved access and outcomes. Determine if state strike force teams should continue as established and make recommendations on necessary changes.
2.	State Veteran Employment: Study current veteran hiring policies among state agencies and consider the effectiveness of a percentage-based system. Make recommendations if there are other ways to equitably measure the success of veteran employment within an agency.
3.	Veteran Benefits: Given pending litigation on the subject, study what veteran benefits, if any, are currently only offered to residents of the state of Texas-whether by being born here or by entering the service in Texas--and assess whether any of these additional benefits leave the state liable for lawsuits under the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Make recommendations for legislation that could reduce the state's liability.
4.	Veterans Courts: Study successes and challenges of veteran’s courts in Texas, including evidence of rehabilitation or recidivism. Consider alternative means of funding, such as voluntary donations at points of contact with state services, and make recommendations.
5.	Defense Adjustment Authorities, Compatibility Use, and Encroachment: Consider best practices for improving the military value at military installations in Texas. Determine cost-effective policies and make recommendations that would strengthen military value.
6.	Monitoring Charge: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations during the 84th R.S. and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following: 1) Monitor the implementation of legislation relating to the qualifications of veteran county service officers, and make recommendations if further changes should be made.
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Counties | County jails | Ebola | Emergency management | Homelessness | Hospitals | Jail population | Jail Standards, Texas Commission on | Managed care | Marijuana | Medicaid | Mental health services | Population growth | Specialty courts | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.83 C832
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View report [106 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Examine population growth in Texas counties and the impact the growth has had on housing, available land resources, businesses in Texas, as well as the impact of growth on the state's economy. Evaluate Texas's preparedness to respond to future growth and ensure economic stability.
2.	Continue oversight of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards and issues jails currently face, including the mental health of those in jail, and make recommendations for refinement or improvement of processes and programs.
3.	Monitor the health advisory panel stemming from HB 3793, 83rd R.S..
4.	Determine which counties have implemented a cite-and-summons policy, whether the policy has been effective in lessening overcrowding in county jails, and whether those cited by peace officers comply with the policy.
5.	Study the implementation of SB 462, 83rd R.S.. Examine which counties currently have veterans courts, as well as veterans courts in other states, and determine how those programs are working and whether these courts provide additional services or resources for veterans. Make appropriate recommendations. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Defense and Veterans' Affairs)
6.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, March 10, 2014 (Population growth, Texas Commission on Jail Standards and county jails, HB 3793 mental health advisory panel, Medicaid 1115 waiver, veterans courts)
Library Catalog Title:	Minutes
Library Call Number:	L1801.9 C832 83 2014: MAR 10
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View document [170 pages  File size: 8,459 kb]
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, October 20, 2014 (Population growth, Texas Commission on Jail Standards and county jails, HB 3793 mental health advisory panel, emergency response preparedness/ebola)
Library Call Number:
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View document [171 pages  File size: 12,739 kb]
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	211 telephone system | Base realignment and closure | Federal budgets | Mental health services | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | Military spending | Occupational licenses | Student aid | Veterans | Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans employment | Veterans health care | Veterans with disabilities |
Library Call Number:	L1836.83 V641
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View report [38 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Investigate the impact of federal actions (including the federal government shutdown, sequestration, military force reductions, and potential base closure or realignment) on active-­duty service members, the Texas Military Department, veterans, their families, defense-­related contractors, small businesses, local governments, and state agencies.
2.	Monitor and examine efforts to provide employment and workforce opportunities for veterans, service members, and their families. Make recommendations on how best to continue collaborating with and supporting our honored veterans as they re-­enter the civilian workforce, including improving employment opportunities for veterans at all state agencies.
3.	Provide an update on the State Strike Force teams’ progress and recommendations on any additional steps necessary to ensure that veterans promptly receive all federal disability benefits to which they are entitled.
4.	Study and make recommendations to improve access to services provided by non-­profit organizations to veterans, their families, and survivors, including examining the effectiveness, standards, and consistency of the 2-­1-­1 information and referral system for military and veteran families statewide.
5.	Monitor the implementation of the veterans occupational licensure bills passed during the 83rd Legislative Session to expedite the licensure process for those who are serving, have served, or are married to someone serving our nation in uniform. Study and make recommendations to strengthen and improve state efforts to ease the transition of military veterans and their spouses into the Texas civilian workforce.
6.	Monitor implementation of the veteran's mental health legislation passed during the 83rd Legislative Session, including funding to support the Military Veteran Peer Network at Department of State Health Services. Assess whether state mental health initiatives targeted to veterans and their families appropriately address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Study and make recommendations to enhance the delivery of mental health services to veterans at the local level through the network of Veteran County Service Officers.
7.	In addition to the formal Interim Charges, the VAMI Committee reviewed allegations that the VA has denied health and mental health care and manipulated waiting lists to access care. The Committee also considered whether or not the state has a role in assisting veterans in Texas with VA health care as it did with the Strike Force Teams for VA disability claims.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Border security | Endangered species | Federal funds | Land use regulations | Light pollution | Military bases | Military families | Military personnel | National Guard | Noise pollution | Occupational licenses | Suicide | Texas Military Preparedness Commission | Texas State Guard | Trees | Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas | Voting by mail | Voting systems |
Library Call Number:	L1836.82 D361
Session:	82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version:	View report [60 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the current role of all Texas state military forces. Identify changes that would enhance the accountability and effectiveness of the state guard, air guard, and national guard and all other components of our state military forces.
2.	Monitor the implementation and impact of the MOVE Act on the state and on municipalities. Make legislative recommendations, as needed, to ensure a smooth implementation of the law. (Joint with the House Committee on Elections)
3.	Study and make recommendations on how the state and local governments can work together to protect our federal military installations from unnecessary encroachment while still allowing appropriate use of land near bases to be used for nonmilitary purposes.
4.	Determine any challenges to the training and operations of Texas' 15 military installations in light of recent reductions in federal defense spending. Additionally, review the current structure and mission of the Texas Military Preparedness Commission as a result of HB 2546 (81R). Recommend any legislative actions needed to sustain and improve the state's military preparedness.
5.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 82nd Legislature.
6.	Examine issues not listed in the committee's interim charges, including suicide prevention and the process for active duty, former active duty and their spouses, and military personnel trasitioning into the workforce and seeking occupational licenses. *
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Courts | Hazlewood Act | Mental health services | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services | Texas Military Preparedness Commission | Texas National Guard | Texas State Guard | Veterans | Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans educational benefits | Veterans employment | Veterans health care | Veterans homes |
Library Call Number:	L1836.82 V641
Session:	82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version:	View report [40 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the employment rate of Texas veterans, and consider ways to better coordinate federal, state, local and private resources to enhance employment services. Examine the transfer of Veteran Employment Services (VES) from the Texas Workforce Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission, and include an assessment of the impact on Texas veterans and their families. Make recommendations for improving services and possible expansion of services to potential additional returning veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
2.	Review the benefits claims process for filing with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs through the Texas Veterans Commission's Claims Representation and Counseling program and make recommendations to improve the quality of life for veterans and their families. Coordinate with the Senate Finance Committee to identify and maximize funding options, reduce claims backlogs, and increase the benefits received by Texas veterans.
3.	Examine methods to support veteran participation in higher education. Examine the use of the Hazlewood Act by Texas veterans, and include recommendations to maximize programs to effectively serve veterans and their families. Determine the efficacy of establishing Veteran Resource Centers at institutions of higher education to assist in student veteran academic achievement, provide additional funding for institutions from increased Montgomery GI Bill revenue, and better integrate veterans on college campuses.
4.	Evaluate the status of mental health services for veterans and Texas Military Forces. Include an assessment of peer counseling programs, "aftercare" provided for units within their local communities following a trauma within the group, and efforts to address the secondary mental health and substance abuse issues caused by post traumatic stress disorders and other combat-related disorders.
5.	Consider establishing a "Commander's Council" in conjunction with the Office of the Governor's Texas Military Preparedness Commission, to allow commanders of Texas' military forces and installations to better coordinate and communicate with the Texas Legislature and state leadership. Develop a comprehensive communication plan with Texas military installations, and recommend any legislative initiatives necessary to support the installations, active-duty service members and their families on and around the installations, and the partnerships between the defense community and the community within which the military installations reside.
6.	Study the appropriate role of Texas state military forces in enhancing the safety of all Texans, and make recommendations for improving the coordination, accountability, and effectiveness of all components of our state military forces, including the national, state, and air guards. Identify limitations on the forces providing border security and other operations, and make recommendations for better coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. (Joint Charge with the Transportation & Homeland Security Committee)
7.	Study the use and impact of Veterans Courts throughout Texas. Make recommendations relating to potential funding sources, staffing requirements, additional direct services not provided by the Veterans Administration, and possible expansion.
8.	Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs & Military Installations, 82nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following: the "College Credit for Heroes" program as administered by the Texas Workforce Commission; the administration of the Veterans Housing Assistance Program by the Texas Veterans Commission's Fund for Veterans' Assistance; and the Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services, authorized by SB 1796, 82nd Regular Legislation Session.
Committee:	House Criminal Jurisprudence
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2010 : a report to the House of Representatives, 82nd Texas Legislature
Subjects:	Courts | Crime | Deferred adjudication | Human trafficking | Public defenders | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.81 C868h
Session:	81st R.S. (2009)
Online version:	View report [38 pages  File size: 807 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Examine the deferred adjudication system in Texas and recommend legislative changes.
2.	Study how the state presently supports the establishment and maintenance of public defender offices.
3.	Study the human and sex trafficking problem in Texas. Make recommendations on best practices in the areas of investigation, prosecution, and tracking of the victims of these crimes. Study whether victims of these crimes are allowed to adequately recover from their attackers in a civil cause of action. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence
4.	Monitor the implementation of SB 1940, 81st R.S., which established veterans court programs in Texas, and examine the link between combat stress disorders of war veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and the onset of criminal behavior. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Defense and Veterans' Affairs
5.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee:	House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2010 : a report to the House of Representatives, 82nd Texas Legislature
Subjects:	Border security | Call centers | Courts | Criminal justice | Federal funds | Homeland security | Land use regulations | Military bases | Military personnel | Veterans | Voting by mail |
Library Call Number:	L1836.81 D361
Session:	81st R.S. (2009)
Online version:	View report [38 pages  File size: 738 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Investigate strategies to address incompatible land use surrounding Texas military installations. Study approaches that minimize conflict with neighboring landowners.
2.	Evaluate the advantages, including potential cost savings, of centralizing call center activities for referral to benefits providers for veterans.
3.	Monitor and review the disbursement and use of border and homeland security funds. Evaluate the effectiveness in meeting the state's border and homeland security program goals and objectives. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Appropriations
4.	Study ways the state can enhance military and overseas voters' ability to obtain and return balloting materials and reduce burdens on those voters' exercise of their right to vote. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Elections
5.	Monitor the implementation of SB 1940, 81st R.S., which established veterans court programs in Texas, and examine the link between combat stress disorders of war veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, and the onset of criminal behavior. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence
6.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs & Military Installations report and recommendations to the 82nd Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Base realignment and closure | Call centers | Employment | Job training programs | Mental health services | Military bases | Military personnel | Texas State Guard | Veterans | Veterans educational benefits | Women |
Library Call Number:	L1836.81 V641
Session:	81st R.S. (2009)
Online version:	View report [151 pages  File size: 16,493 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study veteran employment and veteran-owned small business issues, including the usefulness of creating a veteran-specific employment database to target job openings tailored to the skill sets of Texas' returning veterans. Include an assessment and recommendations to best implement the veteran employment database.
2.	Examine the potential risk factors for returning service members, which may contribute to an increase in domestic violence and child abuse cases. Additionally, determine best practices, including funding options, to ensure that specific counseling related to these risk factors is available to and provided for returning service members and their family members during the initial reunion phase.
3.	Examine the use of the new GI Bill by veterans and their families in conjunction with the changes made to the Hazlewood Act during the 81 st Legislature, Regular Session, as the number of service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan continues to rise. Include an assessment and recommendations on how the programs can be maximized to better serve veterans and their families.
4.	Study the specific needs of female veterans and service members and whether they are met. Make recommendations for improving services.
5.	Study the value of enhancing training requirements for Veterans County Service Officers (VCSO) to improve veterans service at the local level, especially in rural areas. Make recommendations on how to best use technology for training purposes and expanding accreditation of VCSO.
6.	Study the advantages of centralizing call center activities for referral to benefits providers (e.g., TVC, TVLB, VA, DSHS, Suicide Prevention Call Centers, etc.), including the costs associated with maintaining multiple call centers, the potential savings of consolidating reporting systems, and any options for obtaining federal funds. Make suggestions to streamline the process for veterans to obtain resources and benefits.
7.	Inventory and assess veteran workforce programs offered by state agencies (i.e., TVC, TWC, TAG), and include the usefulness of creating a veteran-specific employment database, which would target job openings tailored to the skill set of Texas' returning veterans as well as job training for spouses. Make recommendations to allow agencies to work more effectively and for efficient implementation of a veteran employment database.
8.	Consider the mission of the State Guard and the numbers of volunteers within the State Guard. Make recommendations to incentivize recruitment and retention of volunteers to the State Guard.
9.	Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs & Military Installations, 81st Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, review the following: Monitor implementation of constitutional amendments relating to veterans issues; Monitor the implementation of $5 million for mental health services programs for veterans, the military and their dependents, following the Ft. Hood tragedy; Monitor and analyze the closure process for the following installations and communicate with district Senators and communities: Naval Station Ingleside; Brooks City-Base, San Antonio; and Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant. Monitor and analyze the realignment of the various installations across the state, including but not limited to, Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Fort Bliss in El Paso, and Red River Army Depot in Texarkana.
Committee:	Senate Veterans Health, Select
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	Interim report to the 82nd Legislature
Subjects:	Base realignment and closure | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.81 V641h
Session:	81st R.S. (2009)
Online version:	View report [79 pages  File size: 7,552 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Review the availability and quality of federal health care benefits for Texas veterans, including VA hospitals, primary and specialty health care sevices, and social work services. Make recommendations to the Texas Legislature and the Veterans Administration for improving access and quality of services.
2.	Review the availability and quality of state health care benefits for Texas veterans, including state supported nursing homes, mental health services, and other primary and specialty health care services. Make recommendations to the Texas Legislature for improving access and quality of services.
3.	Monitor BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) recommended integration of Wilford Hall Medical Center and Brooke Army Medical Center and the subsequent creation of the San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) to ensure that Texas veterans receive the benefits they diserve.
Committee:	House Defense Affairs and State-Federal Relations
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Driver licenses | Emergency management | Enhanced driver licenses | Mental health services | National Guard | Public health | Texas State Guard | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.80 D361
Session:	80th R.S. (2007)
Online version:	View report [41 pages  File size: 3,594 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study and make recommendations to address the need to identify essential personnel necessary to enter a disaster area to restore critical infrastructure.
2.	Monitor the United States Congress for the enactment and rules regarding the Veteran's Mental Health Outreach and Access Act of 2007. Explore coordination with the community based clinics in Texas that would be able to provide the prescribed services to veterans.
3.	Review and monitor the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission's Inspector General Disability ratings report. Make recommendations for what the state can do to implement the findings of the report and to assist our veterans.
4.	Examine Chapter 431, Government code to determine the feasibility of the Texas State Guard and Texas National Guard, while designated on state active duty, to assist in interagency planning and operational coordination under the Governor's Division of Emergency Management and the Texas Secretary of State.
5.	Examine the State of Texas' preparedness level to handle a public health emergency. (Join Interim Charge with the House Committee on Public Health.)
6.	Review the current requirements for driver's license and identification card holders in Texas in order to recommend legislative measures to prevent these documents from being used to further criminal activities and recommend ways to enhance homeland security. (Joint Interim Charge with the House Committee on Transportation.)
7.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs & Military Installations report and recommendations to the 81st Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Military bases | Military casualties | Military families | State employees | State purchasing | Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans health care | Veterans Land Board |
Library Call Number:	L1836.80 V641
Session:	80th R.S. (2007)
Online version:	View report [115 pages  File size: 4,666 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Examine any existing state veteran hiring and procurement preferences and procedures and make recommendations for improving and enhancing these programs to increase efficiencies and maximize funding.
2.	Study veteran reintegration issues, including the occurrence of post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse problems, and domestic violence and other family issues. Make suggestions regarding what the state could do to supplement and enhance related services for veterans and their families, focusing on state military forces veterans and reservists. Include an assessment of the implementation of SB 1058, 80th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, relating to reintegration counseling services.
3.	Study state services and benefits for injured service members and their families who are recovering from their injuries and rehabilitating in Texas. Make recommendations on how to better serve them.
4.	Study the relationships between military installations and the surrounding communities and make recommendations addressing encroachment and quality of life.
5.	Examine ways that "The Fund for Veterans Assistance" established by HB 3107, 80th R.S. could be maximized to the benefit of Texas veterans.
6.	Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Veteran Affairs & Military Installations Committee, 80th R.S., and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Focus on the implementation of the Texas Veterans Commission (HB 3426, 80th R.S.) and Texas Veterans Land Board (HB 3140, 80th R.S.) Sunset reviews.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations report and recommendations to the 80th Texas Legislature
Subjects:	Dental care | Fort Bliss | Job training programs | Military personnel | Subprime lending | Veterans | Veterans cemeteries | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans health care | Veterans homes | Voting by mail | Voting rights | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:	L1836.79 V641
Session:	79th R.S. (2005)
Online version:	View report [44 pages  File size: 2,250 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Examine issues and problems with overseas military voting and explore the possibility of establishing a single point of contact for Texas military voters. Consider requirements of the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizen Absentee Voting Act and review systems established in other states.
2.	Compile an inventory of state veterans' benefits, including health care facilities and nursing homes across the state, the state veteran cemetery system, job training programs, educational benefits, and re-employment rights issues, and the Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs, and make recommendations for improving efficiency and effectiveness.
3.	Monitor the implementation legislation transferring the veteran employment programs under the Texas Workforce Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission. Monitor the implementation of legislation establishing a database in the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board that tracks veterans' usage of the Hazlewood higher education tuition exemption.
4.	Examine other issues facing the 80th Legislature, such as oral health of guardsmen and reservists, Ellington Field and Fort Bliss, predatory lending, TRICARE provider shortages, business and employment issues for veterans, and the need for a VA hospital in the Rio Grande Valley.
Committee:	House State, Federal and International Relations
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	House Committee on State, Federal, and International Relations, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2002 : a report to the House of Representatives, 78th Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Base realignment and closure | Border economy | Border issues | Border transit corridors | Cemeteries | Military bases | Museums | Rural areas | Rural issues | Texas Legislative Medal of Honor | Tourism | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.77 st30
Session:	77th R.S. (2001)
Online version:	View report [111 pages  File size: 2,483 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Review the readiness of military installations and communities for possible base closings and realignment. Assess opportunities to attract new military units because of base closings in other states.
2.	Review the state of tourism in rural Texas. Consider tourism products that are successful in rural Texas and those that hold the promise of greater success. Collaborate with local officials and state agencies involved in promoting tourism to design strategies for communities and entrepreneurs to increase tourist business.
3.	Consult with and monitor state and federal agencies with duties related to commercial and personal traffic across the international border with Mexico. Make suggestions to improve the efficiency of border crossings without compromising security or crime detection operations.
4.	Develop options for creating a museum of Texas music and music history.
5.	Review the laws and procedures concerning the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to assure that the award will remain an appropriate symbol of extraordinary merit for Texas veterans.
6.	Actively monitor agencies and programs under the committee's oversight jurisdiction, including the state veterans medical facilities and, upon passage, implementation of the state veterans cemetery system.
Committee:	Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Base realignment and closure | Cemeteries | Long-term care | Military bases | Military families | Military personnel | Nursing homes | Texas Air National Guard | Texas Army National Guard | Veterans | Veterans health care | Veterans Land Board |
Library Call Number:	L1836.77 v641
Session:	77th R.S. (2001)
Online version:	View report [215 pages  File size: 2,154 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor developments at the federal level regarding the Federal Base Realignment and Base Closure (BRAC) process, and the implementation of SB 1815, 77th R.S., relating to loan assistance for communities affected by BRAC.
2.	Evaluate the effects of the increased bonding authority granted to the Veteran's Land Board in HB 2453, 77th R.S..
3.	Evaluate veteran land and housing fund programs, including veteran nursing homes. The Committee shall determine if the demand for veterans nursing home beds is exceeding the available supply.
4.	Monitor the implementation of the following legislation from the 77th Session: HB 310, 77th R.S., relating to veterans cemeteries; HB 2125, 77th R.S., relating to public school admission for military personnel and dependents; and SB 1159, 77th R.S., relating to providing state veteran services. The Committee shall also evaluate the cost-effectiveness of programs and benefits provided to veterans and their families by state agencies. The Committee should consider veterans programs administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Administration.
5.	Assess the impact of the current military mobilization on persons called to active duty and their families. The Committee should examine state and federal statutes concerning active reservists and guardsmen and make recommendations, if necessary.
6.	Monitor the current mobilization of Texas military forces and the role of the National Guard Armories to determine if increased assistance from the state is necessary for an efficient and timely response.
Committee:	House State, Federal and International Relations
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	House Committee on State, Federal, and International Relations, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2000 : a report to the House of Representatives, 77th Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Commission on the Arts, Texas | Economic development | Economic Development, Texas Department of | Historical Commission, Texas | Official designations | Parks and Wildlife, Texas Department of | Poets Laureate | Rural areas | Rural issues | Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund | Tourism | Transportation, Texas Department of | Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.76 st30
Session:	76th R.S. (1999)
Online version:	View report [50 pages  File size: 1,923 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the tourism benefits of a program linking tourist destinations by signage, maps, trails, and other means. Consider how such a program should be coordinated, in light of different agencies' responsibilities for tourism and transportation and for natural, cultural and historical sites.
2.	Study the demographics of Texas' population of military veterans. Compare and contrast veterans' demographics with those of the general population to determine which current or prospective programs have the most benefit.
3.	Review the practices used by other states to designate "state artists" and "state poets." Consider the value of having a permanent procedure for making such designations in Texas.
4.	Assess the potential of community telecommunications networks and technology centers for tourism and business development.
5.	Conduct active oversight of the agencies under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee:	House Military and Veterans Affairs, Select
Title:	Interim report
Library Catalog Title:	Select Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1996 : a report to the House of Representatives, 75th Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Military families | Military personnel | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	L1836.74 m599
Session:	74th R.S. (1995)
Online version:	View report [35 pages  File size: 1,743 kb]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Study and report to the House of Representatives on the issues relating to and the impact on Texas of national military and defense policies, and those issues affecting Texas veterans that may be addressed by state law.
Committee:	House Veterans' Affairs, Special
Title:	Interim report
Library Catalog Title:	Committee on Veterans Affairs, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1994 : a report to the House of Representatives, 74th Texas Legislature.
Subjects:	Veterans | Veterans Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:	L1836.73 v641
Session:	73rd R.S. (1993)
Online version:	View report [31 pages  File size: 1,325 kb]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	To examine the needs of Texas veterans; the measures state, local and federal governments have undertaken to meet the special needs of Texas veterans; and other measures that should be undertaken.
Committee:	House Health Services
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	To the speaker and members of the House of Representatives, 68th Legislature : interim report / of the Health Services Committee, Texas House of Representatives, 67th Legislature.
Subjects:	Alcoholism | Autism | California | Drug rehabilitation programs | Drug trafficking | Hazardous substances | Health care providers | Mental Health and Mental Retardation, Texas Department of | Mental health services | Mentally disabled persons | Patients' rights | Pesticides | Services for persons with disabilities | State agency budgets | Substance abuse | Underage drinking | Veterans | Veterans health care |
Library Call Number:	L1836.67 h349
Session:	67th R.S. (1981)
Online version:	View report [103 pages  File size: 4,438 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Investigate the problems of alcohol addiction and drug abuse among youth.
2.	Oversight functions shall be conducted for all appropriations-related actions of those agencies assigned to this committee for appropriative purposes during the 67th Regular Session of the Legislature. In addition, a study should be made of the impact of any federal cuts, and the differences in the operational aspect of the agencies under block vs. categorical grants. Close scrutiny should be given to each agency to ascertain if legislative intent is being carried out in the rules promulgated by the agency and if the rules are feasible and practical in their application. These agencies include: Department of Health Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation Governor's Commission on Physical Fitness Health Facilities Commission Texas Commission on Alcoholism Board of Morticians Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners Texas Board of Examiners in the Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Aids Board of Nurse Examiners Texas Optometry Board State Board of Pharmacy Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners Texas Board of Podiatry Examiners Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists State Board of Dental Examiners State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and Texas State Board of Medical Examiners.
3.	Study the operations of the Health Systems Agencies in Texas.
4.	Examine California's statutes relating to freedom of choice in selecting health care services and providers and determine if similar changes should be made in Texas' statutes.
5.	Coordinate efforts with the Joint Committee on Autistic Citizens to develop possible alternatives to institutionalization of mentally retarded and autistic persons.
6.	Monitor the activities and progress of the programs designed to provide aid to veterans suffering from Agent Orange. Look at number of veterans served, percentages with abnormalities, costs, etc.
7.	Study the impact of pesticides on health in Texas.
8.	Study the proposed construction of the Houston Psychiatric Hospital.
Committee:	House Veterans' Land Program, Investigation, Special
Title:	Preliminary Report
Library Catalog Title:	Report of the committee in regard to investigation of the Veterans' Land Program.
Subjects:	Veterans | Veterans Land Board |
Library Call Number:	H.J. of Tex., 54th Leg., R.S. 898 (1955)
Session:	54th R.S. (1955)
Online version:	View report [8 pages  File size: 359 kb]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Inquire into and investigate the administration of the Veterans' Land Program, and any other matters which would or might indicate irregularities in the Veterans' Land Program.
Committee:	House Veterans' Land Program, Investigation, Special
Title:	Final Report
Library Catalog Title:	Report of the committee in regard to investigation of the Veterans' Land Program.
Subjects:	Veterans | Veterans Land Board |
Library Call Number:	L1836.54 V641
Session:	54th R.S. (1955)
Online version:	View report [8 pages  File size: 341 kb]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Inquire into and investigate the administration of the Veterans' Land Program, and any other matters which would or might indicate irregularities in the Veterans' Land Program.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Veterans' Land Program, Investigation, Special
Title:	Transcript of Proceedings, Testimony of Attorney General John Ben Shepperd, R.C. Diebel, Preston Craig, and C.H. Cavness, House Special Committee to Investigate the Veterans' Land Program in Texas, February 4, 1955
Library Catalog Title:	Minutes
Library Call Number:	L1836.54 V641M
Session:	54th R.S. (1955)
Online version:	View document [98 pages  File size: 37,820 kb]
Committee:	House Employment of War Veterans in State Departments, Special
Title:	Report
Library Catalog Title:	Report of Committee to investigate employment of war veterans in state departments
Subjects:	State employees | Veterans |
Library Call Number:	H.J. of Tex., 47th Leg. 4260 (1941)
Session:	47th R.S. (1941)
Online version:	View report [3 pages  File size: 89 kb]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Make an inquiry as to how many soldiers, sailors, marines, and nurses are employed, and if a Department does not have its full quota ascertain the reason why. Report back to this body as soon as possible.

* This represents an abstract of the report contents. Charge text is incomplete or unavailable.

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