The bill amends Section 264.018 of the Family Code to enhance the notification requirements for the Department of Family and Protective Services regarding significant events affecting children in their managing conservatorship. Key changes include the requirement for the department to notify both a parent and the parent's attorney, if represented, within 24 hours of significant events such as changes in medical condition, initial prescriptions of psychotropic medication, and changes in the child's placement. Additionally, the bill mandates that notice be given 48 hours prior to any changes in the child's residential facility and outlines the specific individuals who must be notified, including attorneys ad litem and guardians ad litem.

Further provisions include a stipulation that if the department cannot locate a parent or if the parent has not participated in the child's case for at least six months, the department must notify the parent's attorney. The bill also requires the department to document all notifications and attempted notifications in the child's case record. These amendments aim to ensure that parents and their legal representatives are adequately informed about significant changes in the lives of children under the department's care, thereby promoting better communication and involvement in the child's welfare. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 264.018 (Family Code 264)
House Committee Report: Family Code 264.018 (Family Code 264)