HBA-NRS S.B. 1536 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisS.B. 1536
By: Madla
Human Services
5/8/2001
Engrossed



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Modern medicine is constantly changing. However, the application of new
technology to medical services may take time. Pilot projects are an
effective way to examine how new technology can be utilized for the benefit
of various medical and financial assistance programs. Senate Bill 1536
authorizes the establishment of pilot projects to demonstrate the
applications of technology in providing rehabilitation services, services
for the aging or disabled, or long-term care services, including community
care services and support.  

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

Senate Bill 1536 amends the Government Code to authorize the Health and
Human Services Commission to establish one or more pilot projects through
which reimbursement under the medical assistance program is made to
demonstrate the applications of technology in providing services under the
medical assistance program. The bill provides that a pilot project must
relate to providing rehabilitation services, services for the aging or
disabled, or long-term care services, including community care services and
support.  

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act
takes effect September 1, 2001.