The bill, S.B. No. 620, introduces an "active efforts" standard for the removal of children under the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). It amends various sections of the Family Code to define "active efforts" as affirmative, thorough, and timely actions aimed at maintaining or reuniting a child with their family. The bill emphasizes that DFPS must provide tailored support to parents, including assessments, service identification, and family connection facilitation, to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Key amendments replace "reasonable efforts" with "active efforts," highlighting the department's responsibility to assist parents in meeting case plan requirements and mandating that courts document these efforts in orders regarding the termination of parental rights.

Additionally, the bill enhances the review process for children in the foster care system and young adults in extended foster care by requiring courts to determine if DFPS has made active efforts to finalize permanency plans and ensure placements are in the least restrictive environments. It emphasizes assessing children's safety and well-being, including their medical and educational needs, and mandates opportunities for children to express their opinions about their care. The bill also outlines criteria for permanency hearings, focusing on the appropriateness of placements with relatives or designated caregivers and the provision of services to parents when reunification is in the child's best interest. These amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child welfare cases and will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 161.001, Family Code 161.003, Family Code 262.001, Family Code 262.101, Family Code 262.102, Family Code 262.105, Family Code 262.107, Family Code 262.201, Family Code 262.2015, Family Code 263.202, Family Code 263.5031, Family Code 263.602 (Family Code 262, Family Code 161, Family Code 263)