The bill amends various sections of 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 updates the grounds for termination, including new provisions related to immediate danger to a child's physical or mental well-being, and expands the list of offenses that can lead to termination, such as serious crimes against the other parent. Additionally, it specifies that evidence of certain parental actions, such as homeschooling or economic disadvantage, cannot be used as grounds for termination.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing provisions and clarifies the roles of the Department of Family and Protective Services in termination cases. It mandates that courts provide detailed written findings regarding the department's efforts to return a child to their parent and the ongoing dangers that prevent such reunification. 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)