TX
Texas Senate Bill SB588

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB588

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the appointment of the Department of Family and Protective Services and a child's parent or legal guardian as joint managing conservators for the child.

Impact

The impact of SB588 on state laws primarily revolves around the Family Code, specifically Section 262.352, where the bill amends existing provisions to facilitate joint managing conservatorship arrangements. This change aims to reinforce the role of parents or guardians in the mental health care of their children and to ensure that all reasonable efforts are made before state intervention. If enacted, the bill may present a more unified approach to managing cases where mental health services are necessary, while also safeguarding the welfare of the child.

Summary

SB588 relates to the appointment of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) as a joint managing conservator alongside a child's parent or legal guardian. The bill is designed to streamline the decision-making process for families seeking mental health services for children suffering from severe emotional disturbances, emphasizing collaboration between parents and DFPS. It mandates that before DFPS can file a suit for managing conservatorship, they must first discuss joint custody options with the child's parent or guardian, indicating a legislative intent to prioritize family involvement in the care and treatment processes of affected children.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB588 could arise from varying interpretations of 'best interest of the child', especially in cases where there may be concerns regarding parental capabilities. Critics may argue that while involving parents in service plans is positive, it does not address potential situations where parents may not meet necessary standards for guardianship due to their own issues. Additionally, the clarity on conditions under which DFPS engages in such discussions might also be challenged, particularly in emotionally charged custody cases.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 262. Procedures In Suit By Governmental Entity To Protect Health And Safety Of Child
    • Section: 352

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2591

Relating to the appointment of the Department of Family and Protective Services and a child's parent or legal guardian as joint managing conservators for the child.

TX HB4905

Relating to the definition of child neglect and to the appointment of the Department of Family and Protective Services and a child's parent or legal guardian as joint managing conservators of the child.

TX HB5030

Relating to the definition of neglect of a child and suits affecting the parent-child relationship in which the Department of Family and Protective Services central is appointed joint managing conservator with the parent.

TX SB2548

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4953

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB2562

Relating to the procedures for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB1853

Relating to certain procedures in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship for a child placed in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the provision of family preservation services and community-based foster care.

TX HB30

Relating to the notice provided to certain persons concerning children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB47

Relating to the procedures for providing notice to certain individuals on placement of a child in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB4161

Relating to the procedures for providing notice to certain individuals on placement of a child in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.