TX HB451

Requires children entering the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services to receive a screening for risk of commercial sexual exploitation within 45 days, using a validated, evidence-informed tool selected by the Child Sex Trafficking Prevention Unit

Screening applies when age-based validation guidelines indicate it is appropriate or when concerns of commercial sexual exploitation exist

Mandates juvenile probation departments to include commercial sexual exploitation risk screening in their risk and needs assessments for all children under their jurisdiction before case disposition

Implementation by DFPS is contingent on the legislature appropriating money specifically for this purpose; without specific funding, implementation is optional using other available funds

Takes effect September 1, 2025; passed unanimously in the House (147-0) and Senate (30-0)