H.B. No. 694 amends the Family Code to enhance notification requirements for parents and their attorneys regarding significant events affecting children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services. The bill mandates that the department notify a parent and their attorney, if represented, within 24 hours of significant changes in the child's medical condition, participation in drug research programs, initial prescriptions of psychotropic medications, and changes in the child's placement. Additionally, it requires that notice be given 48 hours prior to any changes in the child's residential facility to the same parties, as well as to other relevant individuals such as attorneys ad litem and guardians ad litem.

The bill also introduces new provisions that require the department to document all notifications and attempted notifications in the child's case record. It specifies 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 provide notice to the parent's attorney. The changes aim to ensure that all relevant parties are informed and involved in the welfare of children under the department's care, thereby improving communication and oversight in the child welfare system. 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)
Engrossed: Family Code 264.018 (Family Code 264)
Senate Committee Report: Family Code 264.018 (Family Code 264)
Enrolled: Family Code 264.018 (Family Code 264)