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Bill

SB 620

Relating to applying an active efforts standard for the removal of certain children in the managing conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Bob Hall and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill requiring DFPS to exhaust active preservation efforts before removing children from parental custody, raising standards for family separation decisions.

Co-author authorized
#conservatorship(s0683) #family&protectiveservices #departmentof(v0461) #fostercare(s0064) #family--childprotection(i0351) #family--parent&child(i0355) #minors--health&safety(i0533)
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Bill Summary · SB 620

Legislative bill overview

SB 620 would require the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to apply an "active efforts" standard when removing children from parental custody and placing them in DFPS managing conservatorship. This standard, which has stronger protections than current law, would require the state to demonstrate it has made genuine, sustained efforts to prevent removal before taking such action.

Why is this important

Child removal decisions are among the most consequential government actions affecting families. The "active efforts" standard is more protective than the current "reasonable efforts" standard, potentially reducing unnecessary family separations and giving parents greater opportunity for reunification or alternative placements. This directly impacts thousands of Texas families annually and reflects a shift toward prioritizing family preservation in child welfare policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: Requiring "active efforts" may mandate increased DFPS staffing, training, and resources for prevention and preservation services before removal, raising budget concerns.
  • Child safety vs. preservation balance: Critics may argue stricter removal standards could delay necessary interventions in cases of severe abuse or neglect, potentially endangering children.
  • Burden of proof: The bill changes how DFPS must justify removal decisions, creating potential litigation over what constitutes sufficient "active efforts" and potentially complicating case management.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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