Relating to policies and procedures of the Department of Family and Protective Services, including regarding service plans and post-removal assessments.

HB 681 requires Texas' Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to notify parents' legislators and internal affairs within 48 hours if it denies a service provider's certification. It also mandates that children entering DFPS conservatorship receive a child and adolescent needs assessment and a medical checkup under Texas Health Steps within 15 days of removal from their home. These changes apply only to cases starting on or after September 1, 2025, and do not affect existing cases or suits filed before that date. The bill directly affects parents (via notification rights), DFPS staff (through new procedures), and children in foster care (through timely assessments).