Bill > HB4369

This bill modifies Texas Family Code provisions to lower the age at which a child can express a preference to the court regarding conservatorship (legal custody) and primary residence from 12 to 8 years old. Specifically, the bill changes multiple sections of the Family Code to require courts to interview children 8 years and older in chambers about their preferences for conservatorship and primary residence, and to create a record of these interviews. The changes also mean that in cases involving joint managing conservatorship, modification of existing orders, or temporary orders during pending suits, a child's preference can be considered if they are 8 or older. These modifications apply to any suits affecting parent-child relationships that are pending or filed on or after the effective date, which is September 1, 2025. The goal appears to be giving younger children more agency in legal proceedings that directly impact their living arrangements, while still maintaining the court's primary focus on the child's best interests.

Budget and Finance

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4369