H.B. No. 1534 aims to enhance the procedural requirements for the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) before a full adversary hearing in cases affecting the parent-child relationship. The bill introduces a new section, 262.2011, to the Family Code, which mandates that the court must confirm in writing and in open court that certain notices have been provided to the alleged perpetrator prior to the hearing. Specifically, the DFPS must inform the individual of their rights to record the interview and to request an administrative review of the findings. Additionally, the DFPS is required to provide the individual with necessary information as soon as possible after initiating an investigation.

The provisions of this bill will apply to any suits affecting the parent-child relationship filed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. For suits filed before this date, the existing laws will remain in effect. This legislative change is intended to ensure that individuals involved in such cases are adequately informed of their rights and the processes that will be followed during investigations.

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