Texas House Bill HB215

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24
• Out of House Committee: 3/31/25
• Voted on by House: 4/16/25

Caption

Relating to the payment of support rights and other benefits for a child in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Impact

The implementation of HB 215 will significantly enhance the rights of children in conservatorship by ensuring they are informed of their benefits and entitlements. This could lead to improved financial security for these children, as the bill specifically requires accounting for benefits received and an outline of how these funds are utilized. Such measures could potentially streamline the processes through which benefits are received, promoting a more child-centered approach in welfare practices and enhancing the oversight of financial disbursements related to the child's welfare.

Summary

House Bill 215 addresses the payment of support rights and benefits for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). The bill introduces amendments to the Family Code, specifically targeting the notification processes regarding the children's benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). It mandates that the DFPS provide timely notice to the child's legal representative about any applications for benefits and subsequent decisions, ensuring transparency and better communication regarding the financial resources available to children under their care.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 215 appears largely positive, gaining support from various stakeholders concerned with child welfare and protective services. Advocates for children's rights have lauded the bill as a step towards enhancing the protection of vulnerable children under state care. However, there might be some contention regarding the administrative burden that could arise from the additional notification requirements placed on the DFPS, as they may necessitate changes in existing practices and allocation of resources to ensure compliance.

Contention

While there seems to be a general consensus on the need to support children in conservatorship, some concerns may arise related to the potential increase in administrative duties for the DFPS. The bill requires that detailed records be kept regarding benefits received on behalf of children, which could lead to challenges in resource allocation. There may also be debates around the effectiveness of such notifications in practice and whether they truly empower the children or their advocates in the face of bureaucratic complexities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

• Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
  • Section: 109
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 109
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 109
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section