Texas HB5561 aims to divert certain foster youth from the juvenile justice system through behavior intervention and policy changes.

HB5561 amends Texas law to prioritize the diversion of certain foster youth from the juvenile justice system. It requires residential child-care facilities to implement behavior intervention programs, including crisis response training to limit law enforcement involvement. Juvenile boards must establish policies to divert children under 12 and those in general residential operations from prosecution, referring them instead to community services. The bill also mandates tracking the outcomes of these diversion policies. HB5561 takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas HB5561 aims to divert certain foster youth from the juvenile justice system through behavior intervention and policy changes.

HB5561 amends Texas law to prioritize the diversion of certain foster youth from the juvenile justice system. It requires residential child-care facilities to implement behavior intervention programs, including crisis response training to limit law enforcement involvement. Juvenile boards must establish policies to divert children under 12 and those in general residential operations from prosecution, referring them instead to community services. The bill also mandates tracking the outcomes of these diversion policies. HB5561 takes effect September 1, 2025.