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Bill > HB681


TX HB681

TX HB681
Relating to policies and procedures of the Department of Family and Protective Services, including regarding service plans and post-removal assessments.


summary

Introduced
11/12/2024
In Committee
03/04/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/02/2025

Introduced Session

89th Legislature Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT relating to policies and procedures of the Department of Family and Protective Services, including regarding service plans and post-removal assessments.

AI Summary

This bill introduces two main provisions to improve oversight and care for children in the Department of Family and Protective Services' (DFPS) conservatorship. First, if DFPS denies certification from a service provider, the department must notify the parent's state representative, state senator, and the department's internal affairs office within 48 hours, providing transparency about the reasons for denial. Second, for children removed from their homes, the department must ensure that within 15 days of removal, the child receives a comprehensive assessment including a Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment and a medical checkup following the Texas Health Steps program. The bill specifies that these new requirements will only apply to children entering DFPS conservatorship on or after the effective date (September 1, 2025), and similarly, any related legal suits will be governed by the law in effect at the time they were filed. These changes aim to enhance accountability and ensure more thorough medical and developmental evaluations for children in the child welfare system.

Committee Categories

Health and Social Services

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Referred to Human Services (on 03/04/2025)

bill text


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