Bill > HB1973

This bill amends the Texas Family Code to establish new requirements for providing proof of a child's parents' identity in legal proceedings affecting parent-child relationships. Specifically, the bill requires petitioners to submit a certified copy of the child's birth certificate to the court if available, and if not available to the petitioner, the court may request another party to provide the document. The birth certificate must be filed under seal and kept confidential. If no birth certificate is available or the certificate does not name both parents, the court may request alternative proof of parental identity. The bill also modifies existing provisions related to the Title IV-D agency (a government child support enforcement agency), exempting it from the new birth certificate submission requirements. The changes will apply to parent-child relationship suits filed on or after September 1, 2025, with previously filed suits continuing under the existing law. The bill aims to provide courts with more comprehensive information about a child's parentage while maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive documents.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1973