S.B. No. 1834 seeks to adopt the revised Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children in Texas and amend the Family Code accordingly. The bill redefines key terms, such as "Public child placing agency" and "Executive head of the state human services administration," to specifically refer to the commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission. It also updates the heading of Subchapter B to reflect the correct terminology of the compact. A new section, 162.1021, is introduced to formally adopt the compact, outlining its purpose to ensure timely placements in safe homes and promote coordination among states. The bill emphasizes the best interests of the child in interstate placements and clarifies the responsibilities of public child placing agencies in both sending and receiving states.

Additionally, the bill establishes the "Interstate Commission for the Placement of Children," which will consist of one commissioner from each member state, appointed by the executive head of the state human services administration. This commission will oversee the administration of the compact, enforce compliance, and provide dispute resolution. The bill also details the rulemaking functions of the Commission, requiring public input and allowing for expedited rulemaking in emergencies. It amends various sections of the Family Code to update terminology and repeals unnecessary sections, while emphasizing collaboration with Indian tribes. The effective date for the act 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)