Sunset legislation passed during the 84th Texas Legislative Session (January 13, 2015-June 1, 2015) requires the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) to transfer its programs and functions to either the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) or Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on September 1, 2016.
Sunset is the regular assessment of the continuing need for a state agency or program to exist. While standard legislative oversight is concerned with agency compliance with legislative policies, Sunset starts with a more basic question: Do the agency’s functions continue to be needed? The Sunset process works by setting an automatic termination (Sunset) date on which an agency will be abolished unless a bill is passed to continue it. Beyond this fundamental question, Sunset has always been about more than just limiting the size of government. The process creates a unique opportunity and powerful incentive for the Legislature and stakeholders to look closely at each agency and make key improvements to how state government works.
House Bill 2463 and Senate Bill 200 abolished DARS and transferred all programs and services either to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) or Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on September 1, 2016.
Senate Bill 208 transferred the following DARS programs/services to the TWC.
- The Vocational Rehabilitation program for individuals with visual impairments, including the Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center
- The Vocational Rehabilitation program for individuals with other disabilities
- The Business Enterprises of Texas program
- The Independent Living Services program for older individuals who are blind (Although TWC will receive grant funding and be responsible for program oversight, the agency will enter into an Interagency Contract with the Texas Department of Health and Human Services (HHSC) who will administer these services.)
Summary of House Bill 2463
https://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/hhs-transformation/summaries/HB/2463.pdf
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services Program Transition
http://www.twc.state.tx.us/news/department-assistive-rehabilitative-services-program-transition