Source: http://benchbook.texaschildrenscommission.gov/library_item/gov.texaschildrenscommission.benchbook/91
Timestamp: 2019-04-26 03:37:43+00:00

Document:
Special Issue: “Least Restrictive Setting” means a placement that, in comparison to all other available placements, is the most family-like setting. For children older than six, placing the child in a cottage home, even though part of a general residential operation and considered congregate care under federal law, is permissible and considered under Texas law to be a “least restrictive setting.” For children younger than six, the only acceptable “least restrictive setting” is a foster home. A cottage home may be considered the least restrictive setting for a child younger than six only if DFPS determines it is in the best interest of the child to be placed in the cottage home. Tex. Fam. Code § 263.001(3-a), (c), and (d).
◦ whether DFPS has identified a family or other caring adult who made a permanent commitment to the child. Tex. Fam. Code § 263.5031.
Additionally, Tex. Fam. Code § 263.503(c) requires that, in addition to the requirements of Tex. Fam. Code § 263.5031, at each Permanency Hearing After a Final Order the court shall review DFPS efforts to ensure that the child has regular, ongoing opportunities to engage in age-appropriate normalcy activities as defined by Tex. Fam. Code § 264.001; this may include activities not listed in the child’s service plan. Tex. Fam. Code § 263.503.

References: § 263
 § 263
 § 263
 § 263
 § 264
 § 263