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House approves fund and board for traumatic brain injury with temporary higher startup allocation
Summary
Lawmakers approved HB 388 to create a traumatic brain injury board and fund supported by increased surcharges; an amendment raises operating allocation from 7% to 15% for startup (May 2006–Feb 2008) before reverting to 7%. The bill passed 61-9 and moves to the Senate.
The Utah House passed House Bill 388 on Feb. 23, 2006, creating a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Board within the Department of Human Services and a dedicated TBI Fund financed by surcharges on certain offenses.
Representative Gallins, the sponsor, said the board and fund will coordinate resources, help families find services and provide direction for TBI-related assistance across the state. The bill increases surcharges on DUIs and other offenses and directs the state treasurer to deposit a specified share into the new fund.
Members adopted an amendment that temporarily increases the fund’s board operating allocation from 7% to 15% of total revenues during a startup window (May 2006–Feb. 2008), after which the allocation would revert to 7%. Sponsor Representative Gowans said the temporary increase responds to uncertainty about initial expenses and staffing to stand up the program.
Several members declared personal conflicts and spoke in favor of the bill, citing family members who require long-term care after brain injuries. Representative Bowman and Representative Ray described the practical difficulties families faced in locating services and navigating care. Questions about seat-belt or helmet use were raised but statistical attribution was not provided on the floor.
The House passed HB 388 as amended by a recorded vote of 61 yes to 9 no; the bill will be referred to the Senate for further consideration.
