The bill, H.B. No. 4781, amends Section 264.107(c) of the Family Code to enhance the criteria that the Department of Family and Protective Services must consider when selecting a foster care placement for a child. The updated language emphasizes that, in addition to considering the least restrictive setting, geographic proximity to the child's home, and the ability to meet the child's identified needs, the department must also take into account the child's expressed interests regarding placement, when developmentally appropriate. Furthermore, the bill introduces a new criterion that requires the department to assess whether the placement can meet the long-term needs of the child, including ensuring placement stability.

The bill removes the previous requirement that only included three factors and adds two new considerations, thereby broadening the scope of factors that must be evaluated to ensure the best interest of the child in foster care placements. This legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 264.107 (Family Code 264)