TX HB2350

Changes the standard for non-parents to file custody suits from "actual" care, control, and possession of a child to "exclusive" care, control, and possession for at least six months, while excluding foster parents, relatives, or designated caregivers placed by DFPS from this provision

Expands standing for relatives to file suit when parents are deceased from third degree to fourth degree of consanguinity, and extends the same fourth degree standing to relatives seeking managing conservatorship when a child's circumstances would impair their health or development

Removes standing for persons who resided with the child and the child's guardian/parent for six months if the guardian/parent is deceased, and eliminates standing for adults with "substantial past contact" to request termination and adoption

Limits foster parents, relatives, or designated caregivers placed by DFPS to file suit only after 12 months of placement, and prohibits such suits if the child has been returned to a parent or the DFPS case has been dismissed

Requires parental consent for non-relatives seeking to intervene in pending custody suits, while allowing grandparents and relatives within the fourth degree to intervene without consent if parental custody would significantly impair the child

Takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to suits filed on or after that date