TX HB2216

Raises the evidentiary standard for terminating parental rights from "clear and convincing evidence" to "beyond a reasonable doubt" in suits filed by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS)

Replaces the "reasonable efforts" standard with "active efforts" for DFPS reunification work, requiring affirmative, thorough, and timely efforts including comprehensive family assessments, identifying services, searching for extended family, supporting regular visitation, and providing housing and mental health resources

Prohibits termination based solely on factors including homeschooling, economic disadvantage, nonviolent misdemeanors, declining immunizations for religious reasons, seeking second medical opinions, or allowing age-appropriate independent activities

Requires DFPS to provide electronic discovery to parents at least 7 days before full adversary hearings, including medical/psychological records and consultation records, regardless of whether the department intends to use them in court

Mandates courts postpone full adversary hearings for up to 30 days (increased from 7) when parents are appointed counsel, automatically appoint attorneys for indigent parents, and increase visitation time during any continuances