Family-Based Alternatives System: Purpose, Implementation, and Administration

Sec. 546.0252. FAMILY-BASED ALTERNATIVES SYSTEM: PURPOSE, IMPLEMENTATION, AND ADMINISTRATION. (a) The purpose of the family-based alternatives system is to further this state's policy of providing for a child's basic needs for safety, security, and stability by ensuring that a child becomes a part of a successful permanent family as soon as possible. (b) In achieving the purpose described by Subsection (a), the family-based alternatives system is intended to operate in a manner that recognizes that parents are a valued and integral part of the process established under the system. The system must: (1) encourage parents to participate in all decisions affecting their children; and (2) respect the authority of parents, other than parents whose parental rights have been terminated, to make decisions regarding their children. (c) The commission shall begin implementing the family-based alternatives system in areas of this state with high numbers of children who reside in institutions. (d) The family-based alternatives system may be administered in cooperation with public and private entities. Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 769 (H.B. 4611), Sec. 1.01, eff. April 1, 2025.