The department must work with the lead entity to create a pilot program model for community-based care in the eligible rural region, and the lead entity may take certain steps to carry it out.
Sec. 264.184. PILOT PROGRAM MODEL AND IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE; AUTHORITY. (a) The department, in partnership with the lead entity, shall develop a pilot program model that includes a timeline, with identified funding, for implementing community-based care in the eligible rural region and that addresses: (1) the following services for families and children: (A) family-based services to ensure child safety and prevent entry into foster care; (B) family preservation services, as defined by Section 262.401; (C) case management; (D) foster care and kinship care services; (E) adoption and post-adoption services; (F) transition services for youth aging out of foster care; and (G) any additional services necessary to meet the needs of children and families in the region; (2) the development of and coordination with a diverse network of service providers, including faith-based organizations, local mental health authorities, and others to ensure comprehensive service delivery; (3) the development and implementation of innovative approaches to improve outcomes for children and families; (4) any identified geographic disparities in service availability and access in the region's child welfare system; (5) the creation and oversight of a quality assurance system; and (6) the implementation of a system to manage financial risks and resources, including state and federal funds. (b) To implement the pilot program model developed under Subsection (a), a lead entity may: (1) develop and implement policies and procedures regarding the provision of community-based care within the scope of applicable law and consistent with department policies and procedures, unless waived under Section 264.189; (2) allocate resources as needed to meet community needs; and (3) enter into contracts with service providers, including contracts for case management services. Added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 9 (S.B. 513), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2025.