Texas Governor Abbott Signs Sweeping Child Welfare Reform Bill

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Landmark Child Welfare Reform in Texas

Governor Greg Abbott signed landmark legislation that fundamentally changed how the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) protects children across the state. These sweeping reforms addressed critical issues within the Texas child welfare system that had been putting vulnerable children at risk.

The legislation came after months of advocacy from state leaders and widespread media coverage highlighting serious problems within the child welfare program.

Four Key Child Welfare Bills Signed Into Law

Governor Abbott signed four critical bills at the signing ceremony:

• House Bill 4: Allocates $350 per month to families caring for abused and neglected children
• House Bill 5: Establishes DFPS as a separate, independent agency
• Senate Bill 7: Implements changes to how Texas courts work with child welfare
• Senate Bill 11: Creates a "community-based care" model for foster care

Why These Reforms Matter

Understanding the challenges within the Texas child welfare system is vital for all Texas families. Whether you're dealing with a CPS investigation, fighting for custody of a family member's child, or navigating the foster care system, these laws affect your rights and options.

The children of Texas deserve the strongest protections.