Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB966

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

Caption

Relating to notice regarding certain benefits for which a representative payee or fiduciary has been appointed for a child in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

If enacted, HB 966 would amend the Family Code by adding specific notification requirements that the DFPS must follow. These notifications would include details about applications for benefits, decisions made by benefit agencies, as well as accounting information related to the disbursement of funds received on behalf of the child. The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability regarding the management of public benefits designated for vulnerable children under state care.

Summary

House Bill 966 addresses the notification requirements regarding benefits for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). This legislation mandates that DFPS must inform the child and their legal representative about any applications made on the child's behalf for benefits such as Veterans Affairs benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The objective is to ensure that the children receive timely and relevant information about their eligibility and the management of their benefits.

Conclusion

Taking effect on September 1, 2025, if passed, HB 966 represents a legislative effort to reform the way benefits are communicated to children in state conservatorship. This aligns with broader goals of ensuring that children’s legal and financial interests are adequately represented and safeguarded, promoting responsible management of resources that directly affect their welfare.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB 966 may arise from differing opinions on the administrative burden this law could create for DFPS and its personnel. On one hand, advocates for children's rights and welfare organizations likely support the bill for enhancing oversight and protecting children's benefits. However, some legislators may express concerns about the feasibility of implementing these notification processes given existing bureaucratic constraints, potentially arguing that it might hinder the department's ability to operate efficiently.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB336

Relating to notice regarding certain benefits for which a representative payee or fiduciary has been appointed for a child in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB1864

Relating to certain placements for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB30

Relating to the notice provided to certain persons concerning children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4159

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and monetary assistance provided by the Department of Family and Protective Services to certain relative or designated caregivers.

TX HB2150

Relating to examinations for certain children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB3584

Relating to certain placements for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4904

Relating to the emancipation of certain children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB2548

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4157

Relating to the notification of certain persons concerning certain events related to children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4953

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.