TX SB1558

Nonprofit entities contracting with the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) or single source continuum contractors to provide community-based care or child welfare services are classified as charitable organizations for liability purposes under Chapter 84, Civil Practice and Remedies Code

Entities that meet specific safety requirements cannot be held liable for damages from acts or omissions of employees, volunteers, or caregivers; requirements include conducting criminal background checks, verifying persons are not listed in state registries as ineligible to supervise children, reporting misconduct, taking appropriate personnel action, and requiring child abuse prevention training every five years

Claimants may only pursue vicarious liability claims against these entities by demonstrating the entity was not in substantial compliance with safety requirements, the requirement was designed to prevent the specific harm alleged, and non-compliance contributed to the harm

Liability protections do not apply to damages resulting from gross negligence by the entity, nor do they limit liability for claims authorized by other state or federal law or governmental administrative/regulatory actions

Takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to causes of action accruing on or after that date