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.
Impact
If enacted, SB1398 would significantly impact Texas Family Code by enhancing oversight and accountability of child welfare services. The bill mandates that the DFPS develop a community-based care implementation plan, which outlines the responsibilities and collaboration expected from contractors in delivering services. Moreover, it introduces new requirements for performance reviews and quality improvement measures to ensure service providers meet specific standards in their care delivery. The emphasis on family preservation aims to create a more supportive environment for at-risk families and aims to decrease the number of children placed in conservatorship unnecessarily.
Summary
Senate Bill 1398 aims to amend various procedures related to suits affecting the parent-child relationship for children under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). It emphasizes the importance of family preservation services and establishes protocols for community-based foster care. The bill seeks to ensure that children who are at risk of entering foster care receive the necessary support to remain safely with their families, thereby reducing the need for out-of-home placements. Provisions within the bill also address the selection of service providers and require the implementation of a review process for contractor performance.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB1398 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for child welfare and family services. Proponents argue that the bill represents a critical step forward in ensuring that children's needs are prioritized and that families receive adequate support to remain intact. However, there is also recognition of potential challenges regarding the implementation of community-based care, particularly concerning the readiness of local service providers to meet the increased expectations outlined in the bill. Stakeholders emphasize the need for robust training and support for contractors to ensure successful outcomes.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the feasibility of implementing the proposed changes in practice. There are concerns regarding the ability of potential service providers, especially smaller or community-based organizations, to comply with the rigorous standards set forth by the legislation. The training and resources needed to support such transitions are paramount and may be a dividing factor among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Critics might argue that without adequate funding and oversight, the effectiveness of SB1398 could be compromised, affecting the very families it seeks to protect.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Family Code
Chapter 262. Procedures In Suit By Governmental Entity To Protect Health And Safety Of Child
Section: 401
Section: 411
Section: 401
Section: 411
Section: 401
Section: 411
Section: 401
Section: 411
Section: 401
Section: 411
Section: 401
Section: 411
Chapter 263. Review Of Placement Of Children Under Care Of Department Of Family And Protective Services
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 154
Section: 155
Section: 156
Section: 158
Section: 162
Section: 2031
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 154
Section: 155
Section: 156
Section: 162
Section: 2031
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 155
Section: 156
Section: 158
Section: 162
Section: 2031
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 155
Section: 156
Section: 154
Section: 107
Section: 1261
Section: New Section
Section: 155
Section: 156
Section: 158
Section: 162
Section: 2031
Section: 162
Section: 2031
Section: 155
Section: New Section
Section: 107
Section: 153
Section: 156
Section: 158
Section: 203
Section: 411
Section: 1261
Human Resources Code
Chapter 40. Department Of Family And Protective Services
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.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship, investigations by the Department of Family and Protective Services, and parental child safety placements.
Relating to emancipation and extended foster care for certain older youth and young adults within the jurisdiction of court in a suit affecting the parent child relationship involving the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the requirements for certain petitions and orders in suits affecting the parent-child relationship filed by the Department of Family and Protective Services and the contents of a petition in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship.
Relating to prohibiting the dismissal of certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship involving the Department of Family and Protective Services.
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.
Relating to the administration of services provided by the Department of Family and Protective Services, including foster care, child protective services, and prevention and early intervention services.
Relating to the provision of child protective services and other health and human services by certain state agencies or under contract with a state agency, including foster care, child protective, relative and kinship caregiver support, prevention and early intervention health care, and adoption services.
Relating to the provision of health and human services by the Department of Family and Protective Services and the Health and Human Services Commission.