S.B. No. 513 proposes the creation of a Rural Community-Based Care Pilot Program under a new Subchapter B-2 in Chapter 264 of the Family Code. The bill defines essential terms such as "catchment area," "community-based care," and "eligible rural region," specifically targeting areas where the Department of Family and Protective Services has sought bids for community-based care but received none, particularly in regions with populations of 50,000 or less in two-thirds of the counties. The pilot program aims to implement a community-based model of child welfare services, enhance community engagement, improve outcomes for children and families, and develop a sustainable service delivery model in rural areas.

The bill outlines qualifications for a lead entity to manage the pilot program, emphasizing community support and collaborative experience. It mandates the formation of a community alliance for stakeholder participation and governance, and requires the department to explore funding models tailored to rural challenges. Provisions for data management, workforce development, and potential waivers from existing policies are included to facilitate the pilot program's implementation. Additionally, the bill establishes procedures for conflict resolution, change orders, and confidentiality, appoints an independent evaluator to assess the program's effectiveness, and requires regular reporting to the legislature, with a sunset clause set for September 1, 2031.

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