Texas House Bill HB5394

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/14/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/30/25
• Voted on by House: 5/12/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to prohibiting single source continuum contractors and child-placing agencies from imposing certain requirements on or adopting certain policies and procedures related to relative and designated caregivers.

Impact

The bill is expected to impact state laws significantly, particularly those governing child welfare. By restricting the authority of single source continuum contractors and child-placing agencies, HB5394 aligns regulations with the intent to prioritize the needs of the children and their families. It may streamline the process for relative caregivers, allowing them to be more involved without facing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. The implementation of this bill can alter the landscape of caregiving regulations, promoting a more supportive environment for relatives stepping forward to care for children in need.

Summary

House Bill 5394 aims to amend the Family Code to prohibit single source continuum contractors and child-placing agencies from imposing certain requirements on relative and designated caregivers. The bill specifically ensures that these agencies cannot adopt policies or procedures beyond what is prescribed by law or set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The overarching goal is to protect the rights of relatives and designated caregivers in the child welfare system, ensuring that they are not subjected to additional obstruction or requirements that may complicate the caregiving process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB5394 has largely been positive among advocates for child welfare. Supporters argue that it represents a crucial step towards empowering relatives and designated caregivers, and enhancing the overall child welfare system in Texas. However, some concerns exist regarding the potential oversights that may arise from limiting the policies and procedures those agencies can implement. While proponents highlight the benefits of increasing support for caregivers, critics worry about the balance of accountability and protection necessary for child welfare agencies.

Contention

While the bill has garnered substantial support, there are points of contention that remain. Critics express the possibility that restricting agency autonomy could lead to gaps in oversight or the idiosyncratic application of care standards. The confines of the law may lead to situations where agencies lack flexibility to enact certain protective measures that are not explicitly detailed in the law. This debate underscores an important balance between necessary regulation and the capacity of agencies to effectively respond to the needs of families.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

• Chapter 264. Child Welfare Services
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752
  • Section: 752