Texas Senate Bill SB1660

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to age-appropriate normalcy activities for children in the managing conservatorship of the state.

Impact

The proposed changes would mean that at each permanency hearing conducted after a final court order, the court must evaluate and discuss the efforts made to afford the child regular opportunities for these normalcy activities. This shift reflects a growing understanding of the importance of social and recreational activities in promoting emotional and psychological health for children in care, thereby influencing court practices related to child welfare and family law.

Summary

Senate Bill 1660 aims to enhance the wellbeing of children in the managing conservatorship of the state by emphasizing the importance of age-appropriate normalcy activities. The bill amends the Family Code to require that the court reviews and ensures that each child in state conservatorship is afforded regular opportunities to engage in such activities during permanency hearings. This initiative acknowledges the critical role that normalcy plays in a child's development and aims to provide them with a semblance of a typical childhood experience, which is often compromised in state care situations.

Contention

Some potential points of contention surrounding SB 1660 may revolve around concerns about state resources and the feasibility of implementing these required reviews at each permanency hearing. Critics might argue that additional mandates could overburden an already strained child welfare system. Supporters, on the other hand, would advocate that the benefits of providing age-appropriate activities significantly outweigh these concerns, as ensuring a child’s involvement in normal activities is crucial for their overall wellbeing and development.