Texas House Bill HB2619

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the educational needs of children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The bill amends the Family Code to include provisions for the appointment of surrogate parents for children eligible for special education. This is particularly important for ensuring that these vulnerable children have advocates who can make educational decisions on their behalf. Additionally, the bill includes provisions that will help facilitate the educational stability of children in foster care, reducing disruptions that often accompany changes in their living situations.

Summary

House Bill 2619 addresses the educational needs of children under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services in Texas. It mandates that guardians ad litem and attorneys ad litem appointed for such children are responsible for ensuring that the children's educational needs and goals are identified and met prior to hearings. This requirement aims to enhance educational advocacy for children who may have experienced instability in their schooling due to their circumstances.

Contention

While the bill's proponents argue it ensures that children in conservatorship receive necessary educational support, there are concerns regarding the implementation and resources required for effective execution. Critics may fear that the bill could create additional bureaucratic hurdles or that the support structures would not be adequately funded to ensure proper oversight and advocacy for every child affected.

Notable_points

Another key aspect of the bill is that it addresses the significant transitions children in foster care face, from changing schools to transferring records seamlessly. By requiring school districts to expedite record transfers and support the educational continuity for foster children, the bill aims to minimize the educational disruptions that can severely impact their learning and development.