Texas House Bill HB147

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the powers and duties of guardians ad litem and volunteer advocates representing children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

This legislation impacts state laws concerning the management and oversight of child protective services. By formalizing the responsibilities and expectations for guardians ad litem, the bill seeks to ensure that children's voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives. Additionally, it mandates that advocates act in the best interests of the child, which may lead to improved advocacy outcomes and greater consideration of the child’s needs in foster care situations.

Summary

House Bill 147 aims to enhance the role of guardians ad litem and volunteer advocates representing children under the jurisdiction of the Department of Family and Protective Services. The bill amends existing provisions in the Family Code to outline additional responsibilities for guardians ad litem, such as reviewing medical care and ascertaining the child's rights. Specifically, the bill requires the guardian to seek the child's opinion on their medical care in a developmentally appropriate manner and to provide them with essential personal documents by the age of 16.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 147 involves the additional requirements placed on guardians ad litem. Some advocates argue that while increasing the responsibilities of these representatives is essential, it may also lead to a burden where advocates are unable to fulfill comprehensive duties due to resource limitations. The expectation to inform children of their rights and to engage with them on medical issues may require further training and support for these advocates to ensure they can adequately navigate the complexities of each child's situation.