Bill > SB300

This bill modifies existing Texas law to expedite and expand information sharing between the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and juvenile justice agencies. Specifically, the bill changes two key provisions: first, it requires DFPS and foster care service contractors to share relevant information "immediately" (instead of within 14 business days) when requested by a juvenile justice agency. The bill also expands the categories of children about whom information can be shared to include children whose parental rights have been terminated. Second, the bill updates language regarding information provision about children in juvenile justice custody, again requiring immediate (rather than 14-day) response and broadening the definition of which agencies can request such information. The bill applies only to information requests made on or after its effective date, which will be either immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature or September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met. The primary goal appears to be improving communication and coordination between child welfare and juvenile justice systems to better support multi-system youth.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB300