Bill > HB215

This bill enhances protections and transparency for children in the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services by establishing new requirements for handling benefits and support rights. Specifically, the bill requires the department to provide detailed notifications to a child's legal representative (such as an attorney or court-appointed advocate) about any applications for federal benefits like Veterans Affairs benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The department must inform the legal representative about applications, decisions, communications, and appeals related to these benefits. Additionally, before each placement review hearing, the department must provide a comprehensive accounting of benefit funds received on the child's behalf, including the amount, date of receipt, disbursements, and details about any requests for fund usage. The bill also creates a new provision allowing relatives or designated caregivers who have a child placed with them by the department to receive the child's support rights and benefits, such as SSI payments. These changes aim to improve oversight and ensure that children in foster care and their caregivers have greater transparency and access to financial resources intended for their support.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB215