Bill > HB1071

This bill establishes the Texas Adoption Assistance Program, administered by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), to provide financial support for adoptive parents. The program will allow certified nonprofit organizations to solicit and distribute donations as adoption assistance grants to eligible parents. To qualify, parents must reside in Texas, have adopted a child under 18, and have an annual household income not exceeding $400,000. The grant amount is tiered based on household income, ranging from 10% to 50% of adoption-related expenses, which can include legal fees, home studies, adoption advertisements, counseling, medical expenses, case management, and communication support for open adoptions. Certified organizations must distribute at least 97% of donated funds as grants and are subject to annual independent audits. To become certified, organizations must be tax-exempt, have a mission related to family or child services, and agree to partner with the state in supporting adoptive parents. The HHSC will select and certify organizations, monitor their compliance, and can revoke certification for substantial violations. The program is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the potential for state matching funds depending on available appropriations.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1071