The bill amends the Health and Safety Code to update the designation of residential treatment facilities for emotionally disturbed juveniles. Specifically, it removes the exclusive reference to the Waco Center for Youth and allows the Department of Family and Protective Services to designate multiple state facilities for this purpose. The amendments clarify that juveniles admitted under Subtitle C can be placed in any state facility designated by the department, rather than being limited to the Waco Center.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the department provide appropriate education services at these designated state facilities without charge. It specifies that funding for these services will come from appropriated funds, and it outlines the conditions under which clients not residing in the local school district can receive educational services, requiring prior approval from the district's superintendent. The changes aim to enhance the flexibility and accessibility of treatment and educational services for juveniles in residential facilities. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 554.001, Health and Safety Code 554.002 (Health and Safety Code 554)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 554.001, Health and Safety Code 554.002 (Health and Safety Code 554)