Bill > HB4631

This bill modifies the procedures for preliminary investigations when a child is referred to juvenile court by changing the language around who conducts the investigation and how certain cases are handled. Specifically, the bill shifts the responsibility of conducting the preliminary investigation from an intake or probation officer directly to the juvenile court, requiring the court to determine whether the referred person meets the definition of a "child" and whether there is probable cause to believe they have engaged in delinquent conduct or need supervision. For children under 12 years old who have probable cause of misconduct but do not require prosecution, the juvenile court must now refer the case to a community resource coordination group or local juvenile service provider if the child and family are not already receiving services and would benefit from them. The bill also repeals a section of the existing Family Code and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, which suggests a carefully planned implementation to allow time for court systems to prepare for the new procedures.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4631