S.B. No. 1834 seeks to adopt the revised Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children in Texas and make necessary updates to the Family Code. Key amendments include redefining terms such as "Public child placing agency" and "Executive head of the state human services administration," specifying these roles as the commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission, respectively. The bill introduces a new section, 162.1021, which formally adopts the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children, outlining its purpose and definitions. It establishes guidelines for interstate placements, including provisions for assessments, certifications, and the responsibilities of member states, while clarifying the compact's applicability and exceptions.

The bill also creates the "Interstate Commission for the Placement of Children," composed of one commissioner from each member state, responsible for establishing rules, providing dispute resolution, and ensuring compliance with the compact. It mandates that public child placing agencies in both sending and receiving states approve placements and outlines their responsibilities regarding financial support and maintenance of the child. Additionally, the bill emphasizes timely assessments and services during the placement period, while providing qualified immunity for the Commission's staff. It includes provisions for rulemaking, oversight, and financial accountability, ensuring that the Commission can effectively manage interstate child placements and maintain transparency. The effective date for these changes is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 162.101, Family Code 162.103, Family Code 25.05, Family Code 162.105, Family Code 162.107 (Family Code 25, Family Code 162)