H.B. No. 2969
AN ACT
relating to prohibiting a maximum age or age differential for
prospective adoptive parents.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter G, Chapter 162, Family Code, is
amended by adding Section 162.604 to read as follows:
Sec. 162.604. MAXIMUM AGE RESTRICTION FOR ADOPTIVE PARENTS
PROHIBITED. (a) The Department of Family and Protective Services,
a single source continuum contractor, or a licensed child-placing
agency that places a child for adoption may not implement or enforce
a policy that:
(1) sets a maximum age for any prospective adoptive
parent; or
(2) sets a maximum age differential between a child
and any prospective adoptive parent.
(b) Subject to Subsection (a), the Department of Family and
Protective Services, a single source continuum contractor, or a
licensed child-placing agency may consider the health and expected
lifespan of each prospective adoptive parent when determining the
best interest of a child.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I certify that H.B. No. 2969 was passed by the House on May 9,
2023, by the following vote: Yeas 140, Nays 2, 2 present, not
voting.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
I certify that H.B. No. 2969 was passed by the Senate on May
23, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
APPROVED: _____________________
Date
_____________________
Governor