Relating to notification and disclosure of records and information concerning an investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect to county or district attorneys.
Impact
By restructuring how reports of suspected child abuse or neglect are communicated, HB2665 seeks to enhance the responsiveness of legal entities to such serious matters. The bill prescribes that the information shared with attorneys remains confidential and is strictly released for legal purposes, thus protecting sensitive details from becoming public. This framework is designed to ensure that child abuse investigations receive the necessary legal attention promptly, potentially leading to swifter responses in safeguarding children.
Summary
House Bill 2665 aims to amend Section 261.1055 of the Texas Family Code, focusing specifically on the notification and disclosure protocols related to investigations of child abuse or neglect. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication between the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and county or district attorneys when such reports are received. Under the provisions of this bill, upon receipt of a report, the department will be mandated to immediately inform the relevant county or district attorney responsible for investigating or prosecuting the case. This change aims to streamline the referral of cases to the appropriate legal authorities.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding this bill is the balance between confidentiality and transparency. Advocacy groups have voiced concerns about the confidentiality clauses, worrying that while protecting sensitive information is crucial, it may also limit transparency and oversight. Some stakeholders argue for a more nuanced approach that would allow for certain information to be disclosed publicly, enabling community awareness while still protecting the privacy of affected individuals. Destined to take effect on September 1, 2025, the bill’s implementation will require further examination to ensure it does not inadvertently hinder justice or public trust.
Very Similar
Relating to notification and disclosure of records and information concerning an investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect to county or district attorneys.
Relating to investigations of child abuse and neglect and the procedures for adding names to or removing names from the central registry of child abuse and neglect.
Relating to notifying an alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect of the person's rights in connection with an investigation conducted by the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the reporting and investigation of certain allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, the making and investigation of complaints alleging violations of certain health facility licensing requirements, and the content of the employee misconduct registry.
Relating to the creation of offices of District Attorney for the Northeast Texas, Central Texas, Southeast Texas, and South Texas Regions and the powers and duties of and related to such officers.
Relating to the creation of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Regional Administrative Judicial Districts, the creation of the office of regional district attorney for each district, and the powers and duties of regional district attorneys.
Jefferson Co., Tenth Judicial Circuit, Bessemer Division, add'l assistant district attorney provided for, approval by Jefferson County Commission, Sec. 45-37-82.01 am'd.