House Bill No. 5302 proposes the establishment of the Texas Foster Care Post Adoption Assistance Account Program, which aims to support adoptive parents by providing financial assistance for post-adoption-related expenses. The bill introduces a new subchapter in the Family Code, specifically Subchapter I, which outlines definitions, program establishment, eligibility requirements for organizations, and the responsibilities of certified organizations. The comptroller is tasked with administering the program, certifying organizations that meet specific criteria, and ensuring that funds are distributed appropriately to eligible parents.
Key provisions include the definition of a "post adoption assistance account," the eligibility criteria for both organizations and parents, and the maximum allowable amounts for assistance accounts. Certified organizations must comply with various requirements, including conducting annual audits and ensuring that at least 97% of donations are used for post-adoption assistance. The bill also specifies the types of expenses that can be covered by the assistance accounts, such as behavioral therapies and transportation for visits with biological family members. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
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