TX HB3281

Raises the evidentiary standard for terminating parental rights from "clear and convincing evidence" to "proof beyond a reasonable doubt," the same standard used in criminal cases

Narrows grounds for termination by requiring proof that conditions or parental conduct placed the child in "immediate danger" likely to result in physical injury or serious emotional injury, replacing the broader "endangers the physical or emotional well-being" standard

Eliminates several termination grounds including: parent being the major cause of child's failure to enroll in school or absence from home; prior termination of parental rights for another child based on endangerment; and failure to comply with court-ordered service plan provisions

Changes termination orders from mandatory ("shall") to discretionary ("may") when grounds are proven, and requires courts to make detailed written findings about the department's reasonable reunification efforts and any continuing danger preventing the child's return home

Repeals Section 161.003 (termination based on parental mental illness or deficiency), provisions allowing prior termination to be used as evidence against a parent, and related performance measures for the Department of Family and Protective Services