H.B. No. 966 introduces a new section to the Family Code, specifically Section 264.0112, which mandates that the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) provide timely notice to a child in its conservatorship regarding certain benefits for which a representative payee or fiduciary has been appointed. The bill defines "legal representative" and outlines the specific benefits and services that require notification, including applications for United States Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). The DFPS is required to inform the child's legal representative about any applications made on the child's behalf, decisions from relevant agencies, and any appeals or actions taken regarding these benefits.

Additionally, if the DFPS serves as the representative payee for the child, it must provide detailed information to the child's legal representative before each placement review hearing. This includes the total amount of benefits received, information about the child's assets and resources, an accounting of how benefit funds have been disbursed, and details regarding any requests for fund disbursement made by the child's advocate or caregiver. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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