A-2.11. Subject Matter Experts

HHSC recognizes the value of subject matter experts (SMEs) to provide information to the Board as it develops recommendations and initiatives relative to its charge(s). The primary role of a SME is to provide objective, independent information and analysis to be considered by the Board. SME participation will be subject to the request of Board members and will fall within the following guidelines:

• A) Board members, the chair or vice-chair, and HHSC staff may invite a SME to provide information on specific subjects and topics;
• B) by Staff, the Board chair, or vice-chair may recognize an invited SME to provide information or analysis during allotted time periods at a specified Board meeting;
• C) Staff, the Board chair, or vice-chair may request the SME participate in questions and answers;
• D) All SMEs will participate and serve at the pleasure of the Board;
• E) SMEs do not hold any official capacity on the Board and do not have rights of deliberation or the right to vote on any Board activities or decisions;
• F) SMEs should only take part in discussion on the topic for which they are invited to the meeting. Comments on any other topic should be restricted to public comments with the same restrictions as the general public;
• G) SMEs must sign a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Statement and provide it to the committee liaison;
• H) SMEs should disclose any conflicts of interest they may have prior to providing information to the Board; and
• I) None of the information or guidance contained in this section shall prevent any individual from participating in or providing comments to the Board as allowed under the Texas Open Meetings Act.

Failure to adhere to the above guidelines and the Statement by Advisory Committee Subject Matter Experts may lead to removal. HHSC staff will discuss next steps with the chair, OCC, and leadership should the situation arise.