Relating to hiring and employment requirements for persons in direct contact with children at certain facilities.

HB 3153 requires facilities like residential treatment centers, juvenile detention centers, and homeless shelters to conduct criminal history checks and employment verifications for all staff, volunteers, and contractors who may have direct contact with children. It applies to the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, counties, and municipalities. The law mandates that facilities review state criminal records and verify employment for anyone potentially providing care, supervision, control, or routine interaction with children at these locations. This policy change aims to prevent physical or sexual abuse by ensuring background checks for all individuals in direct contact with children. The bill became effective September 1, 2025, after being signed by the Governor.