Bill > HB451

This bill requires two key screenings for children entering the state's care to help identify potential risks of commercial sexual exploitation. Specifically, for children entering the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services, a comprehensive assessment must now include not only a trauma screening and interviews with individuals knowledgeable about the child's needs, but also a screening for commercial sexual exploitation risk, using a validated tool from the Child Sex Trafficking Prevention Unit, when appropriate based on age or when concerns exist. Similarly, juvenile probation departments must now include a commercial sexual exploitation risk screening as part of their standard risk and needs assessment for children under their jurisdiction. The bill requires implementation only if the legislature specifically appropriates funds for this purpose, and it is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. The goal appears to be early identification and prevention of child sex trafficking by systematically screening vulnerable children for potential exploitation risks.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB451