Texas House Bill HB2144

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/28/25

Caption

Relating to access to certain information in the adoption process.

Impact

The bill modifies existing regulations in Sections 162.005 and 162.0062 of the Family Code, mandating that all relevant information must be shared with prospective adoptive parents, thus shifting how agencies handle sensitive data in the adoption process. Specifically, the bill ensures that by the 30th day after a child's permanency plan changes to adoption, the agencies are required to distribute reports on the child's history. Additionally, it reinforces the importance of adhering to confidentiality protocols to protect the identities of biological parents and other sensitive data.

Summary

House Bill 2144 aims to improve the adoption process in Texas by enhancing the access to health, social, educational, and genetic information for prospective adoptive parents. The amended Family Code requires the Department of Family and Protective Services and licensed child-placing agencies to compile comprehensive reports on the available history of children placed for adoption and to inform prospective adoptive parents of their rights regarding this information. This change is intended to help adoptive parents make informed decisions and provide better care for their adopted children by understanding any health needs or family histories.

Contention

While the intent of HB 2144 is to empower adoptive parents, concerns may arise regarding the balance of information disclosure and maintaining the confidentiality of the biological family's identities. Requiring prospective adoptive parents to sign nondisclosure agreements before receiving any confidential information could be viewed as both a protective measure and a potential stumbling block, as it may complicate the adoption process. Furthermore, the requirement to provide this information within a specific timeframe could place additional pressure on agencies that are already managing multiple cases, raising questions about resource allocation and efficiency in handling these sensitive matters.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

• Chapter 162. Adoption
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0062