Representative Nevarez Passes First Bill in Texas House of Representatives

Austin, TX — With less than six weeks left in the 83rd legislature, State Representative Poncho Nevárez continues to work hard for his constituents.  Although hazed by his senior colleagues, as is tradition for freshman representatives, Nevárez passed his first bill, HB 908, through the Texas House.  With HB 908 focusing on rural community issues, Rep. Nevárez recognizes that these type of topics need to be addressed and fought for.

“I am humbled to pass my first bill out of the House.” Nevárez states.  “With more of my bills coming to the floor in the upcoming weeks, I look forward to represent my district and make sure that these issues are fully addressed.”

HB 908 relates to the assessment of an elderly or disabled person’s psychological status for purposes of an emergency order authorizing protective services. This bill would amend the statute to not just allow master social workers and licensed psychologists to perform psychological assessments of disabled or elderly persons for exploitation, abuse, or neglect, but also allow licensed professional counselors the ability to perform these assessments.

“With the lack of master social workers and licensed psychologists in rural areas, permitting licensed professional counselors to perform these psychological assessments would benefit greatly,” expressed Nevárez.  “Again, I am excited and humbled about moving this bill, but there is still more session left and a lot of work left to do.”

Representative Poncho Nevárez is currently serving his first term in the Texas House of Representatives.  He represents District 74.  He also serves on the House Culture Recreation and Tourism, International Trade & Intergovernmental Affairs and Rules and Resolutions Committees.