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Bill

HB 3748

Relating to reimbursing employees of the Department of Family and Protective Services for loss of or damage to personal property.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by César Blanco and 2 co-sponsors

Authorizes Texas DFPS to reimburse employees for personal property damage or loss incurred during work duties, addressing occupational hazards in child welfare casework.

Placed on intent calendar
#family&protectiveservices #departmentof(v0461) #propertyinterests--personalproperty(i0600) #stateemployees(i0626) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HB 3748

Legislative bill overview

HB 3748 would authorize the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to reimburse employees for personal property that is lost or damaged while performing their job duties. The bill establishes a mechanism for DFPS workers to seek compensation when their belongings are harmed during work-related activities.

Why is this important

DFPS employees often work in high-risk environments—including homes with safety hazards, violent situations, and emergency removals of children—where personal property damage is a realistic occupational hazard. Without reimbursement authority, employees currently bear the financial burden of damage to phones, clothing, vehicles, or other items damaged during legitimate work duties, which may discourage qualified people from pursuing these critical positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget impact: The state would absorb costs previously borne by employees; fiscal notes would clarify the expected expenditure and whether this strains existing DFPS budgets
  • Scope definition: The bill's language determining what qualifies as "loss or damage" during job duties could be ambiguous—distinguishing between negligence, unavoidable workplace conditions, and reasonable work hazards
  • Implementation standards: Questions about claim procedures, documentation requirements, liability caps, and whether this applies to all employee categories or only certain positions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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