H.B. No. 215 aims to enhance the support rights and benefits for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services in Texas. The bill introduces a new section, 264.0112, which mandates that the department must notify the child's legal representative about any applications for benefits such as Veterans Affairs, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) made on the child's behalf. Additionally, if the department acts as a representative payee, it must provide detailed information regarding the benefits received, the child's assets, and any requests for fund disbursement before each placement review hearing.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 264.109(a) to clarify that the placement of a child in substitute care results in the assignment of support rights to the state, with an exception noted in Section 264.763. This new section allows relatives or designated caregivers to receive support and benefits on behalf of the child, ensuring that any support rights and payments due to the child are passed through to them. 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)
Engrossed: Family Code 264.109 (Family Code 264)