Texas House Bill HB2200

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain procedures in suits affecting the parent-child relationship involving the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The statutory updates brought about by HB2200 will allow for more streamlined judicial processes when dealing with family law cases filed after the effective date of the legislation. It seeks to clarify which types of court orders can be appealed and creates guidelines to improve transparency in the handling of sensitive parental rights cases. For instance, it explicitly states that temporary orders shall not be subject to interlocutory appeal in specific contexts, thereby aiming to expedite resolution in child welfare cases. This approach intends to reduce delays that can occur in the family court system, which often can have significant impacts on children's welfare.

Summary

House Bill 2200 is directed at amending specific procedures within suits affecting the parent-child relationship, particularly those involving the Department of Family and Protective Services in Texas. The bill introduces changes to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code as well as the Family Code, specifically outlining certain rights of appeal related to temporary orders rendered by courts in these cases. This legislation aims to address the complexity of legal procedures within family law, especially in regards to how situations concerning children are adjudicated and managed in the court system.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill could face scrutiny from various advocacy groups concerned about parental rights and the implications of limiting appeals on temporary orders. Critics may argue that these changes could undermine parents' ability to contest decisions made by the courts, particularly in urgent or complicated cases. By restricting potential appeals, some legislators and stakeholders might express anxiety about the balance of power in family law, and whether it could unintentionally lead to injustices or overlook the nuances of individual cases involving parental rights.