Gov. Rick Perry made stops in Killeen and two other Texas cities Tuesday to sign a bill into law that revamps the state’s troubled protective services for children and adults.
Perry also held bill-signing ceremonies in Arlington and San Antonio.
Perry had declared the issue an emergency for lawmakers after several high-profile child homicides involving children had been left in their parents care after Child Protective Services investigations.
Budget writers appropriated nearly $250 million for CPS reform.
They say the plan will allow for the hiring of an additional 2,500 CPS workers, cut caseloads and move some of the agency's tasks to the private sector.
Perry said Tuesday that under the bill, CPS salaries will go up and caseloads will go down by 40 percent.
The reforms also extend to the Adult Protective Services agency, which also was under criticism.
Legislative budget writers added $34 million to the APS budget to hire more caseworkers and allow intervention when there's an imminent threat of abuse.
“Simply put, these reforms will save lives and ensure that every Texan can live a life of dignity,” Perry said, “and I am proud to put my name on a bill that will renew hope for those who have lost it as a result of neglect and abuse.”
“By improving management and oversight, and by establishing lines of authority that are clearer and tied to strict accountability, these reforms will ensure that investigators and caseworkers have the tools and help they need to protect the lives of those at risk of abuse, neglect and lasting harm,” Perry said.
TEXAS LEGISLATURE
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