Relating to the stability of placements for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Impact
One significant aspect of HB3399 is the establishment of a Placement Tracking System. This system mandates the DFPS to monitor children who have had multiple placements within a year to gather critical data on their transitions. The information collected will be used to assess the effectiveness of current approaches to child welfare and to develop strategies that promote more stable living conditions for vulnerable children. Monthly reports will be generated based on this tracking, contributing to transparency and accountability within the department.
Summary
House Bill 3399 focuses on improving the stability of placements for children who are under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in Texas. The bill introduces amendments to Chapter 263 of the Family Code, which aims to ensure timely notification and documentation regarding children’s placement changes. A substitute care provider is required to inform the DFPS of any changes in a child's living situation, including the reasons behind these changes and suggestions for future placements that may better support the child's stability.
Contention
While the bill has been largely supported, there are concerns about the feasibility and resource implications of implementing the Placement Tracking System. Critics argue that the effective tracking of placements is only as good as the resources allocated for it. They emphasize that without adequate staffing and funding, the intended improvements in child welfare may not materialize. Furthermore, some stakeholders are cautious about how mandated reporting could affect the relationships between care providers and case managers, potentially leading to an environment of distrust.
Notable_points
Another notable provision within HB3399 is the requirement for permanency planning efforts that involve identifying appropriate educational placements and services tailored to meet each child's unique needs. The bill mandates a comprehensive approach to evaluating whether the current placements effectively support children's well-being and development, reflecting a growing emphasis on the holistic considerations associated with child welfare.
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 children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or program.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or qualified residential treatment program.
Relating to a request for admission to a specialty inpatient stabilization treatment program by the Department of Family and Protective Services of certain minors in the managing conservatorship of the department.
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.
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.
To Require The Department Of Human Services To File A Motion When It Recommends A Nonemergency Change In A Child's Placement From One Foster Home To Another And For A Hearing To Be Held Before The Change In Placement Occurs.