TX HB4870

Creates a grant program administered by the Office of Court Administration to fund nonprofit organizations that provide legal assistance to relative and kinship caregivers assuming care of a child

Limits eligibility to caregivers with incomes at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty level

Legal assistance covered includes consent to medical treatment for children, authorization agreements for nonparent caregivers, temporary care authorizations, suits affecting parent-child relationships, and other legal proceedings related to assuming care of a child

Grants must be awarded through contracts that ensure the public purpose is accomplished and the state receives return benefit; the Office may accept gifts, grants, and donations for the program

Takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative vote, otherwise September 1, 2025