TX
Texas Senate Bill SB837

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB837

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

Caption

Relating to a family preservation services program.

Impact

This legislation stands to impact state laws by creating a structured framework for family preservation services, moving away from solely reactive approaches to more preventive strategies. Under SB837, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is tasked with establishing a program that allows families at risk of child removal to receive supportive services aimed at keeping children in their current homes. The program will utilize both state and federal funds, including Title IV-E and TANF, to finance these essential services.

Summary

Senate Bill 837 aims to enhance the Family Preservation Services Program within the Texas Family Code. The bill revises definitions related to children at risk of entering foster care and introduces the concept of 'short-term expense services.' These services are designed to financially assist families with temporary expenses that can help keep children at home, such as rent, transportation, and educational programs. The legislation emphasizes a family-focused approach to addressing the risk factors that may lead to child removal by providing necessary support to families during crises.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB837 may involve the effectiveness and breadth of the services provided. Advocates argue that providing targeted support can significantly reduce the number of children entering the foster care system, while critics may raise concerns regarding the sustainability of funding for these initiatives and the administrative feasibility of implementing such programs statewide. Furthermore, discussions may focus on the program's accountability measures, including how outcomes will be measured and assessed over time, to ensure that the intentions of the bill translate into effective assistance for families in need.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 262. Procedures In Suit By Governmental Entity To Protect Health And Safety Of Child
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 401
    • Section: 402

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB2525

Relating to creating the Family and Protective Services Board.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX SB1930

Relating to policies and procedures regarding children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or qualified residential treatment program.

TX HB1972

Relating to policies and procedures regarding children placed by the Department of Family and Protective Services in a residential treatment center or program.

TX HB211

Relating to the regulation of child-care facilities and registered family homes, including the provision of services to children with disabilities or special needs.

TX HB5176

Relating to an annual report published by the Department of Family and Protective Services regarding child protective services.

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB3694

Relating to a deadline for completing services under a family service plan.

Similar Bills

TX SB10

Relating to adoption of alternative payment method pilot programs for the provision of health care services to certain state employees.

TX HB3273

Relating to the creation and funding of the state water implementation fund for Texas to assist the Texas Water Development Board in the funding of certain projects included in the state water plan.

TX HB2080

Relating to the creation and implementation of a greenhouse gas emissions reduction plan.

TX SB28

Relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

TX SB288

Relating to improving the quality of health care services provided under certain state programs through certain initiatives, including payment strategies and medication history review requirements.

TX HB12

Relating to a study on a statewide disaster alert system and implementation of that system and to notice to elected officials of a widespread power, water, or natural gas outage or emergency.

TX HB4

Relating to the administration of the Texas Water Development Board and the funding of water projects by the board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB402

Relating to the adoption of the Uniform Electronic Legal Material Act.