Bill > HB5327

This bill modifies Texas Family Code provisions to prioritize placing children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) with adoptive parents of their siblings. The bill adds a new definition for "adoptive parent of a sibling" and requires DFPS to identify whether a child has adopted siblings and notify those adoptive parents about the child's removal and placement needs. Before making placement decisions, DFPS must consider placing the child with an adoptive sibling's parent if the parent expresses interest, the placement is in the child's best interest, and no person with a long-standing relationship with the child is available. The department must document its efforts to identify and notify sibling adoptive parents, record any interest in placement, and explain reasons for approving or denying such placement. Importantly, the bill clarifies that this new provision does not override existing placement preferences, create a mandatory placement requirement, or establish grounds for legal action. The changes aim to keep siblings connected and provide potential alternative placements for children in the state's care, with the law set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5327