The bill amends the Family Code to clarify the payment of support rights and benefits for children placed with relatives or designated caregivers by the department. Specifically, it modifies Section 264.109(a) to state that the placement of a child in substitute care constitutes an assignment of any support rights attributable to the child to the state, except as provided by the newly added Section 264.763. This new section establishes that relatives or designated caregivers are eligible to receive support and benefits on behalf of the child, including monthly benefits.

Under the new provisions, the department is required to pass through to the relative or designated caregiver any support rights attributable to the child, as well as payments the child is entitled to, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. This change aims to ensure that caregivers receive the necessary financial support to care for children placed in their custody. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 264.109 (Family Code 264)
House Committee Report: Family Code 264.109 (Family Code 264)