H.B. No. 3281 proposes amendments to the Texas Family Code regarding the procedures and grounds for the termination of the parent-child relationship. Key changes include the requirement for courts to find "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" instead of "clear and convincing evidence" for termination cases. The bill also introduces new grounds for termination, such as if a parent has been convicted of specific violent crimes against the other parent or if the parent has engaged in conduct that places the child in immediate danger of physical or serious emotional injury. Additionally, the bill clarifies that evidence of certain factors, such as economic disadvantage or nonviolent misdemeanor charges, cannot be used as sufficient grounds for termination.

The bill repeals several existing provisions and modifies others to streamline the process for termination cases, particularly those filed by the Department of Family and Protective Services. It emphasizes the necessity for the department to demonstrate reasonable efforts to reunite the child with the parent before seeking termination. The changes will apply only to suits filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 161.001, Family Code 161.007, Family Code 161.206, Family Code 161.302 (Family Code 161)
House Committee Report: Family Code 161.001, Family Code 161.007, Family Code 161.206, Family Code 161.302 (Family Code 161)