H.B. No. 451 amends the Family Code and Human Resources Code to enhance the screening processes for children at risk of commercial sexual exploitation. Specifically, it mandates that within 45 days of a child entering the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services, a comprehensive assessment must be conducted. This assessment will now include a screening for risk of commercial sexual exploitation using a validated, evidence-informed tool selected by the Child Sex Trafficking Prevention Unit, in addition to the existing requirements for trauma screening and interviews with knowledgeable individuals about the child's needs.

Furthermore, the bill requires juvenile probation departments to incorporate a screening for risk of commercial sexual exploitation into their risk and needs assessments for children under their jurisdiction. The implementation of these provisions is contingent upon the legislature appropriating specific funds for this purpose; otherwise, the department may choose to implement them using available resources. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 266.012, Human Resources Code 221.003 (Human Resources Code 221, Family Code 266)
House Committee Report: Family Code 266.012, Human Resources Code 221.003 (Human Resources Code 221, Family Code 266)
Engrossed: Family Code 266.012, Human Resources Code 221.003 (Human Resources Code 221, Family Code 266)
Senate Committee Report: Family Code 266.012, Human Resources Code 221.003 (Human Resources Code 221, Family Code 266)
Enrolled: Family Code 266.012, Human Resources Code 221.003 (Human Resources Code 221, Family Code 266)