The bill, H.B. No. 215, amends the Family Code to enhance the support rights and benefits available for children placed with relatives or designated caregivers by the department. Specifically, it clarifies that the placement of a child in substitute care results in an assignment of any support rights attributable to the child to the state, except as provided by a new section, 264.763. This new section establishes that relatives or designated caregivers are eligible to receive support and benefits on behalf of the child, and mandates that the department facilitate the assignment of support rights to these caregivers.

Additionally, the bill requires the department to designate the relative or caregiver as the representative payee for any programs, services, and payments that the child is entitled to, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. This legislative change aims to ensure that children placed with relatives or caregivers receive the necessary financial support and benefits, thereby improving their welfare and stability. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 264.109 (Family Code 264)