Legislative Blog
J.B. Williams, J.D.
4 bills that modify the Family Code
A Blog about 88th Legislature Laws
A Bit of Background
The following backgrounds help summarize the author's views on both the general topic: Texas and more specifically 88th Legislature Laws as it relates to that topic.
Brief Summary of Texas
Texas is truly a Republic. There are a multitude of items that to modify the state constitution must be modified. So there are times when Constitutional amendments are on the voting ballots. While I sometimes abhor the wording, the concept that all of those legally able to vote in Texas must vote on the change is a good one. And bills in Texas are generally short, making it easier for everyone to understand.
Summary of 88th Legislature Laws
The blogs here will discuss the laws passed by Congress and signed into law, as well as those, passed by Congress and approved by the voters to become law. There are a multitude of laws and each time I post blogs I will notate here the current effective date if it is different from prior blogs. I am currently posting bills that took effect immediately - those bills total 336. I am currently posting regarding larger bills, so each blog covers a single bill.
Blog Summary
HB 4183 - Waiver of waiting period for marriage ceremony
HB 4233 - Training regarding runaway protection for children in DFPS custody
HB 4696 - Investigations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation; investigation of health facility licensing requirements
HB 5195 - Services for children in juvenile detention facility
4 bills that modify the Family Code
Published: 2025-04-30
HB 4183
Waiver of waiting period for marriage ceremony
An associate judge under Chapter 201 or 54A of the Government Code, or a justice of the peace, may now issue waivers for marriage ceremonies to occur during the 72 hours immediately following the issuance of a license.
HB 4233
Training regarding runaway protection for children in DFPS custody
Every foster parent, prospective adoptive parent, and relative or designated caregiver of a child who is 10 years or older shall complete runaway prevention measure training. They must also receive training in the proper procedures in the event a child runs away.
This training may be provided to those providing care for children under 10 who have a history of running away. The Department may choose to include it as part of existing license training.
HB 4696
Investigations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation; investigation of health facility licensing requirements
Health facilities must display a sign that is prescribed by the commission, not DFPS as previously required, that specifies compliant procedures.
Majority of the changes are shifting from DFPS rules and oversight, to the Health and Safety Commission rules and oversight.
Facilities now include intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disability; assisted living facilities; day activity and health services facilities; residential child-care facilities; providers who give home and community-based services.
HB 5195
Services for children in juvenile detention facility
Children held in juvenile detention facilities are to be provided education, programming, and other services to meet minimum standards. Within 21 days of a child ordered detained, the facility administrator or designee, must complete an initial assessment of the child to evaluate their needs and develop a written plan to provide them an opportunity to make progress. Status reports are required every 90 days; and shall include the education and services provided, behavioral compliance or incidents, any measurable progress on rehabilitation, and any comments or observations or recommendations.
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