86R2376 MCK-D
By: Farrar H.B. No. 2485
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the investigation of allegations of abuse and neglect
in a residential detention facility.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter E, Chapter 261, Family Code, is
amended by adding Section 261.411 to read as follows:
Sec. 261.411. INVESTIGATIONS IN RESIDENTIAL DETENTION
FACILITIES. (a) This section applies only to a residential
child-care facility that:
(1) is operated by or under a contract with United
States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enforce federal
immigration laws; and
(2) detains children.
(b) The Health and Human Services Commission shall adopt
rules relating to the commission's investigation of allegations of
abuse or neglect in a residential child-care facility described by
Subsection (a).
(c) The rules must require the commission to:
(1) immediately investigate an allegation of abuse or
neglect of a child detained in a residential child-care facility
described by Subsection (a);
(2) communicate with the child who is the alleged
victim of the abuse or neglect and the alleged victim's family; and
(3) ensure the alleged victim is provided
opportunities to communicate with the victim's parent, guardian, or
another family member.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2019.