Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB194

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment of faith-based child-care facilities.

Impact

The bill will amend existing laws to introduce a new category of child-care facilities operated by religious organizations. These faith-based child-care facilities will provide 24-hour care for foster youth and will not be subject to the same licensing requirements as traditional child-care providers. This exemption aims to streamline the process for religious groups to participate in foster care, potentially increasing the number of available placements for children in need. The bill mandates that these facilities must establish oversight committees, ensuring that a mix of community representation and professional expertise is involved in their operation.

Summary

House Bill 194, titled the Faith-Based Foster Care Enhancement Act, seeks to establish and regulate faith-based child-care facilities in Texas. The bill recognizes the growing need for child care services, particularly for foster youth, by allowing religious organizations to provide care within a structured framework. It underscores the historically significant role that these organizations have played in supporting child welfare and community initiatives, asserting their capability to offer nurturing environments for children in the state's conservatorship.

Contention

However, the introduction of this bill raises certain points of contention. Critics are concerned that exempting faith-based facilities from licensing standards could compromise the welfare of children if not properly monitored. While supporters advocate for the flexibility and community support that these organizations can offer, there is apprehension that relying on faith-based facilities may not meet the diverse needs of all foster youth, particularly those from non-religious backgrounds or those with differing beliefs. Furthermore, ensuring that mental health services offered by these facilities meet professional standards remains a key consideration in addressing the potential challenges.

Notable_points

The bill includes provisions for faith-family programs, where members of religious organizations can mentor and support foster youth, potentially leading to increased foster or adoptive placements. By integrating these faith-based facilities into the state's foster care system, the legislation attempts to marry community resources with the state's efforts to provide care for vulnerable children. If enacted, HB194 is expected to take effect on September 1, 2025, thus providing relevant parties time to prepare for its implementation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Human Resources Code

  • Chapter 42. Regulation Of Certain Facilities, Homes, And Agencies That Provide Child-care Services
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB2534

Identical Relating to the establishment of faith-based child-care facilities.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1853

Relating to certain procedures in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship for a child placed in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the provision of family preservation services and community-based foster care.

TX HB211

Relating to the regulation of child-care facilities and registered family homes, including the provision of services to children with disabilities or special needs.

TX HB163

Relating to the licensing of child-care facilities providing care to certain unaccompanied children and the suspension of laws relating to the licensing of those facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB2237

Relating to the establishment of the child first grant program.

TX SB1384

Relating to the establishment of the child first grant program.

TX HB1667

Relating to the reporting of child abuse or neglect.

TX HB1798

Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.

TX HB4600

Relating to the funding of child care facilities.

TX HB4541

Relating to the establishment of a pilot program to provide comprehensive whole child care for children with complex medical needs.

TX SB2360

Relating to the establishment of a pilot program to provide comprehensive whole child care for children with complex medical needs.

Similar Bills

CA SB246

Early childhood education: reimbursement rates.

CA AB125

Early childhood education: reimbursement rates.

CA AB167

Childcare and development services: infants and toddlers: state funding.

CA AB859

Juveniles: dependency: judicial caseloads.

CA SB764

Chain restaurants: children’s meals.

CA AB2535

Department of Parks and Recreation: grants: playgrounds and play structures: disability access.

CA AB2478

Child Care and Development Services Act: Commission on Child Care Providers.

CA SB174

Early childhood education: reimbursement rates.