The bill amends the Family Code to update the provisions regarding emergency shelter facilities for minors. Specifically, it allows these facilities to provide shelter and care to a minor and their accompanying children, with the stipulation that such care cannot extend beyond 30 days unless the minor consents to continue receiving services or qualifies for financial assistance and is on a waiting list for housing. This replaces the previous limit of 15 days for the provision of shelter or care.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that a minor can consent to emergency shelter or care if they are 16 years or older and living independently from their parent or guardian, or if they are unmarried and either pregnant or a parent themselves. These changes aim to enhance the support available to minors in need of emergency shelter while ensuring that the provisions are clear and accessible. The law will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 32.201, Family Code 32.202 (Family Code 32)