Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1923

Filed

2/3/23

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to videoconferencing with a child by the child's possessory conservator.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1923 introduces clear regulations regarding virtual visitation rights that can significantly impact existing custody arrangements. By formally defining videoconferencing rights for possessory conservators, the bill strengthens parental access and ensures that technology can facilitate bonding and communication in family dynamics. The law also specifies that these virtual interactions do not replace physical custody and should not influence child support decisions.

Summary

House Bill 1923 relates to the provisions concerning videoconferencing between a child and their possessory conservator. The bill amends the Family Code to ensure that a possessory conservator is entitled to two periods of videoconferencing each week with the child, along with specific guidelines detailing the duration and timing of these virtual visits. This legislation aims to provide a structured method for maintaining communication between a parent and child, especially where physical custody barriers exist.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the bill appears to be largely supportive, particularly among family law advocates and those in favor of using technology to enhance child-parent relationships. Proponents argue that it addresses modern family needs, acknowledging the increasing importance of digital communication in everyday life, especially in light of circumstances that may limit in-person visits. However, there may also be concerns about privacy and the adequacy of technological provisions for such interactions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the limitations imposed by the bill regarding situations involving family violence. Courts may restrict or deny videoconferencing in these cases, which raises discussions about the accessibility and fairness of such mandates based on family dynamics. Additionally, while the bill enhances possessory conservators' rights to maintain communication with their children, there may be apprehensions about how this affects the overall custody framework and the rights of non-custodial parents.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

Chapter 153. Conservatorship, Possession, And Access
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1012

Relating to the conservatorship or possession of, or access to, a child in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

TX SB849

Relating to orders providing for the conservatorship of or possession of and access to a child by the child's parents in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

TX SB1349

Relating to placing a child in the possessory conservatorship of the child's parents in certain situations.

TX HB924

Relating to the periods of possession of a child to which the child's possessory conservator is entitled under a standard possession order.

TX HB3379

Relating to orders for the conservatorship of, possession of or access to, or support of a child in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

TX HB3647

Relating to placing a child in the possessory conservatorship of the child's parents in certain situations.

TX HB63

Relating to the conservatorship or possession of, or access to, a child by a parent who is deployed by the military.

TX SB1702

Relating to orders providing for the conservatorship of or possession of and access to a child by the child's parents in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

TX HB1453

Relating to visitation for certain children in the temporary managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB352