The bill amends the Family Code to establish new procedures and notice requirements for adding an individual's name to the central child abuse or neglect registry. It stipulates that the department cannot add a name without a final order from the State Office of Administrative Hearings or a court confirming that the individual has abused or neglected a child, except in specific cases such as abandonment, serious bodily injury, or sexual abuse. The bill mandates written notification to individuals regarding the department's intent to add their name to the registry and grants them the right to challenge this inclusion through legal processes. Additionally, it requires the department to conduct an internal review of abuse or neglect findings if requested, ensuring that individuals are informed and can contest their inclusion before it occurs.

Furthermore, the bill modifies various sections of the Family Code to enhance the legal framework for child abuse and neglect cases. It requires courts to make specific findings about the conduct of parents or guardians in relation to child abuse or neglect, including a determination of whether such conduct occurred and the applicable legal provisions. The bill also emphasizes that information from internal department reviews is confidential and not publicly disclosed. It modifies the criteria for ordering family preservation services, focusing on evidence of immediate risk of abuse or neglect. These changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services responsible for implementing the necessary rules.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 261.002, Family Code 261.005, Family Code 262.201, Family Code 262.406, Family Code 264.203 (Family Code 262, Family Code 264, Family Code 261)