Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB694

Filed
11/12/24  
Out of House Committee
4/7/25  
Voted on by House
4/30/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/19/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/20/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

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.

Impact

The implementation of HB 694 could significantly influence existing laws surrounding parental involvement and oversight of children in state conservatorship. With the bill's passage, the Department of Family and Protective Services will be held to higher standards of communication, ensuring that stakeholders, especially parents and legal representatives, remain informed about their child's status in a timely manner. This act aligns with the broader focus of state laws on transparency and accountability in the child welfare system, promoting the idea that parents should have agency regarding their children's lives, even while they are in state custody.

Summary

House Bill 694 aims to enhance the notification protocols for individuals involved with children under the management of the Department of Family and Protective Services. The bill mandates that the department must notify parents and certain legal representatives within a specified timeframe when there are significant changes in a child's conditions or placement. This change seeks to ensure that parents are kept informed about critical developments, such as medical conditions, changes in a child's living situation, or participation in clinical drug trials. By enhancing communication, the bill aims to bolster the rights of parents and guardians while ensuring that children’s welfare is prioritized.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 694 has generally been positive, particularly among advocacy groups focused on child welfare and parental rights. Supporters argue that the bill represents a crucial step towards enforcing greater responsibility on the part of the state agencies, ensuring that families are not left in the dark regarding significant matters affecting their children. However, some concerns have been voiced about the practical implications of the notification process, specifically regarding the capacity of the department to manage timely notifications and the associated bureaucracy. Thus, while most responses have been favorable, there is awareness of potential implementation challenges.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 694 include concerns over how effectively the Department of Family and Protective Services can manage the increased notification duties without straining resources or compromising the quality of care provided to children. Critics of the bill highlight that while the intention is commendable, the realities of firsthand execution may lack efficiency. Additionally, questions have arisen regarding the definition of who is considered to have an interest in a child's welfare, which can lead to potential legal ambiguities, impacting the notification responsibilities. This nuanced debate highlights the balancing act between enhancing parental rights and ensuring the smooth operation of child welfare systems.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018
    • Section: 018

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 HB30

Relating to the notice provided to certain persons concerning children in the managing 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 HB4953

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

TX SB2562

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain 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 HB47

Relating to the procedures for providing notice to certain individuals on placement of a child in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4161

Relating to the procedures for providing notice to certain individuals on placement of a child in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB2150

Relating to examinations for certain children 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.

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