Sec. 2109.004.  PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES.  (a)  A volunteer program must include:
(1)  an effective training program for paid staff and prospective volunteers;
(2)  the use of paid staff to plan and implement the volunteer program;
(3)  an evaluation mechanism to assess:
(A)  the performance of the volunteers;
(B)  the cooperation of paid staff with the volunteers;  and
(C)  the volunteer program;  and
(4)  follow-up studies to ensure the effectiveness of the volunteer program.
(b)  A volunteer program may:
(1)  establish a program to reimburse volunteers for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of volunteer services;
(2)  establish an insurance program to protect volunteers in the performance of volunteer services;
(3)  cooperate with private organizations that provide services similar to those provided by the governmental entity;  and
(4)  purchase engraved certificates, plaques, pins, or awards of a similar nature, with a value that does not exceed $75 for each volunteer, to recognize special achievement and outstanding services of volunteers.
(c)  This section applies to a volunteer program of a governmental entity, regardless of whether the governmental entity provides human services.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 268, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.