A significant change is on the horizon for the Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP), which helps Texans with disabilities obtain specialized telecommunications equipment. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has announced that contracts with STAP Outreach and Training Specialists will officially end on August 31, 2025. These contracts have historically supported the application certification process for eligible individuals, particularly those in underserved or rural areas.
The decision to end these contracts comes as part of an ongoing transition toward a more decentralized, community-based service model. According to the Department of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS), the move reflects a shift in how most applicants already receive assistance—with the majority currently relying on local, certified providers unaffiliated with the now-ending contracts.
What This Means for Applicants
Beginning September 1, 2025, applicants who previously worked with a contracted STAP Specialist will need to connect with an eligible STAP Certifier in their community. The list of current certifiers is available on the STAP section of the Texas HHSC website, and local service organizations often maintain their own directories as well.
Certification is a critical part of the application process, ensuring that applicants receive equipment suited to their specific communication needs. While the overall structure of the STAP program remains unchanged, the method by which certification is provided will rely more heavily on these independent, community-based professionals.
Reasons for the Change
While officials have not publicly detailed the specific factors driving the decision, the end of these contracts is understood to be part of a broader effort to streamline state services and reduce administrative overhead. Additionally, increasing digital access and a growing number of trained local providers have made the centralized Outreach and Training Specialist model less essential.
Community Support and FAQs
To ease the transition, DHHS has published a detailed FAQ document addressing common concerns and outlining steps for locating a certified provider. The document is available online through the agency’s website.
Texans needing assistance or clarification can reach out directly to the STAP team via email at [email protected].
Looking Ahead
Despite the end of specialist contracts, STAP remains committed to its mission of supporting communication access for Texans with disabilities. With local providers taking a larger role, applicants are encouraged to begin identifying nearby certifiers early to ensure a smooth process as the change approaches.
As always, The Texas Insider will continue to monitor updates and provide resources to keep residents informed.
