Bill > HB5302

This bill establishes the Texas Post-adoption Assistance Program, administered by the comptroller, to encourage the adoption of children in the state's foster care system by providing financial support to adoptive parents. The program will work through certified nonprofit organizations that can solicit donations and award grants to eligible adoptive parents. Eligible parents must be adopting a child under 18 who was previously in the Texas foster care system, and they must commit to residing in Texas for at least six months per year and using the grant money only for specific post-adoption expenses. These expenses include behavioral and psychological therapy, transportation to visit family or therapeutic activities, supporting open adoption agreements, respite care, and other therapeutic services. The maximum grant amount is $2,000 for adopting one child or $1,500 per child for multiple child adoptions. Certified organizations must distribute at least 97% of donated funds as grants and are subject to annual independent audits. The program also allows for potential state matching funds, though this is contingent on available appropriations. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to provide financial and supportive resources to families who adopt children from the foster care system.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5302