H.B. No. 116 amends the Texas Family Code to update the grounds for the involuntary termination of the parent-child relationship. The bill introduces new legal language that allows the court to order termination if a parent has engaged in specific conduct, including being convicted of serious offenses such as murder or sexual assault against the other parent, or if the parent has been placed on community supervision for such offenses. Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions regarding parental abandonment and support obligations, ensuring that the criteria for termination are clear and comprehensive.

The bill also specifies that the changes will apply to any pending suits affecting the parent-child relationship as of the effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. This ensures that the new standards will be applied consistently in ongoing and future cases. Overall, H.B. No. 116 aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the termination of parental rights in Texas, particularly in cases involving serious criminal behavior that endangers the welfare of children.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 161.001 (Family Code 161)
House Committee Report: Family Code 161.001 (Family Code 161)
Engrossed: Family Code 161.001 (Family Code 161)
Senate Committee Report: Family Code 161.001 (Family Code 161)
Enrolled: Family Code 161.001 (Family Code 161)