Bill > HB4322

This bill modifies training requirements for foster parents in Texas by reducing the initial pre-service training from 35 to 20 hours and introducing new annual training mandates. Under the new law, foster parents will be required to complete up to 10 hours of competency-based annual training on topics related to foster parenting and children's needs, with the specific training content tailored to the caregiver's license and the unique needs of placed children. Notably, the bill includes a provision that allows foster parents to waive their daily reimbursement rate, which would then exempt them from most annual training requirements, with an exception for up to five hours of training deemed necessary by the department, child-placing agency, or single source continuum contractor to meet a specific child's needs. The bill also requires the commissioner and executive commissioner to collaborate in developing rules to implement these new training provisions. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving agencies and foster parents time to prepare for the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4322