H.B. No. 2969

AN ACT

relating to prohibiting a maximum age or age differential for prospective adoptive parents.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Subchapter G, Chapter 162, Family Code, is amended by adding Section 162.604 to read as follows:

Sec. 162.604. MAXIMUM AGE RESTRICTION FOR ADOPTIVE PARENTS PROHIBITED. (a) The Department of Family and Protective Services, a single source continuum contractor, or a licensed child-placing agency that places a child for adoption may not implement or enforce a policy that:

(1) sets a maximum age for any prospective adoptive parent; or

(2) sets a maximum age differential between a child and any prospective adoptive parent.

(b) Subject to Subsection (a), the Department of Family and Protective Services, a single source continuum contractor, or a licensed child-placing agency may consider the health and expected lifespan of each prospective adoptive parent when determining the best interest of a child.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.

______________________________ ______________________________

President of the Senate Speaker of the House

I certify that H.B. No. 2969 was passed by the House on May 9, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 140, Nays 2, 2 present, not voting.

______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House

I certify that H.B. No. 2969 was passed by the Senate on May 23, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.

______________________________ Secretary of the Senate APPROVED: _____________________

Date

_____________________

Governor