30/12/2021, 15:29 DSHS Advisory Committees

Advisory Committees

Resources
Advisory Committees and Governor-Appointed Councils
Open Meetings Schedule and Live and Archived Webcasts
Application Solicitations 
FAQs

Advisory committees provide valuable input regarding programs, policies and rules as the agency seeks to become more
responsive and effective in addressing needs. DSHS works together with advisory committees to ensure that Texans have
access to effective public health services and that all Texans live and work in safe, healthy communities. Advisory
committees may be called committees, councils, boards or task forces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are advisory committee meetings open to the public? 

In most instances, advisory committee meetings are open to the public and subject to the Open Meetings Act ( Government Code,
Chapter 551). Some advisory committees hold closed sessions to discuss cases or activities of a confidential nature. Open meeting
notices are posted on the Secretary of State website. You may also find advisory committee meeting dates, times and locations (or
links) by viewing the opening meetings schedule. You can sign up to receive notifications about open meetings as well.

Are advisory committee meetings broadcast live? 

HB 630, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, 2017, directs each health and human services agency to broadcast live video and audio
of open meetings and to provide access to archived video and audio of meetings on the agency's website by 2023. 

Using the Microsoft Teams platform, all DSHS advisory committees are broadcasting open meetings and you can view the
scheduled Live and Archived Webcast Meetings.  The public may also join any open meeting by telephone in person or remotely
with the phone number and location provided in the meeting notice.

How can
I provide feedback to an advisory committee? 
You can make a public comment at an advisory committee
meeting. There is time on the agenda for public comment at each open
meeting. Please note there may be a time limit for comments.  Instructions for public comment will be provided prior to the
meeting or by contacting the point of contact named on the posted
meeting agenda 72-hours prior to the meeting as required by
law. Some committees also provide opportunities for written comment. Check with the meeting contact listed online for more
information. 

How do
I apply for membership on an advisory committee?

There are more than 25 advisory committees that provide advice on agency rules, policies  and programs. Member appointments
are made by the DSHS Commissioner, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Executive Commissioner, the Governor or other
legislative officers and varies by committee. You can find open positions, how to apply and  applications for membership below, at 
HHS Advisory Committees, and on individual advisory committee pages.

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Application Solicitation Information

The new Antimicrobial Stewardship Regional Advisory Committees are seeking founding members. Applications are being
accepted through February 15, 2022. More information.

Information about solicitation of applications for additional advisory committees is available at HHS Advisory Committees. 

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