House Bill No. 2665 amends Section 261.1055 of the Family Code to enhance the notification and disclosure process regarding child abuse or neglect investigations to county or district attorneys. The bill introduces new provisions that require the Department of Family and Protective Services to notify the appropriate county or district attorney upon receiving a report of suspected abuse or neglect. Additionally, it mandates that, upon request, the department must provide the attorney with a copy of the report and all related investigation information, including confidential details as specified under Section 261.201.
Furthermore, the bill establishes that the information shared with county or district attorneys is not subject to public release under Chapter 552 of the Government Code and can only be disclosed for specific legal purposes outlined in the Code of Criminal Procedure. This legislative change aims to improve collaboration between child protection agencies and legal authorities, ensuring that attorneys have access to necessary information while maintaining confidentiality and legal compliance. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Family Code 261.1055 (Family Code 261)