Bill > HB3635

This bill updates the definition of child abuse in the Texas Family Code and modifies reporting procedures for child abuse and neglect. The bill expands the definition of abuse to explicitly include improper relationships between educators and students, and adds a new definition of "law enforcement agency" that includes the Department of Public Safety, municipal police departments, county sheriff's offices, and county constable's offices. The legislation streamlines reporting requirements by removing references to "local or state" law enforcement and replacing them with more direct language about reporting to "a" law enforcement agency. The bill also requires that when the Department of Family and Protective Services receives an anonymous report, they must inform the reporter that anonymous reports are not accepted and provide alternative reporting options. Additionally, the bill mandates that when a report of child abuse or neglect is made orally, the receiving agency must notify the reporter that the call is being recorded and that making a false report is a criminal offense. For school-related investigations, the bill now requires written notification (which can be via email) to school district superintendents or school leaders about investigations involving school employees. These changes aim to improve the clarity, efficiency, and effectiveness of child abuse reporting and investigation processes. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3635