The bill, S.B. No. 300, amends the Family Code and Human Resources Code to facilitate the exchange of information between the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) or its contractors and state or local juvenile justice agencies. Specifically, it requires DFPS or a contractor to share relevant information immediately upon request from a juvenile justice agency, rather than within 14 business days as previously mandated. The information to be shared includes details about children who are or have been in the custody of DFPS, those involved in family-based safety services, and those reported as victims or perpetrators of abuse or neglect. Notably, the bill adds a new category for children whose parental rights have been terminated.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for DFPS to provide information regarding children in the custody of juvenile justice agencies, ensuring that the information is shared immediately upon request. The changes apply only to requests made after the bill's effective date, with prior requests governed by the previous law. The bill is set to take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Human Resources Code 243.008 (Human Resources Code 243)