reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.119. Ombudsman Program

Sec. 231.119.  OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency shall establish an ombudsman program to process and track complaints against the Title IV-D agency.  The director of the Title IV-D agency shall:
(1)  designate an employee to serve as chief ombudsman to manage the ombudsman program;  and
(2)  designate an employee in each field office to act as the ombudsman for the office.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency shall develop and implement a uniform process for receiving and resolving complaints against the Title IV-D agency throughout the state.  The process shall include statewide procedures to inform the public and recipients of Title IV-D services of the right to file a complaint against the Title IV-D agency, including the mailing addresses and telephone numbers of appropriate Title IV-D agency personnel responsible for receiving complaints and providing related assistance.
(c)  The ombudsman in each field office shall ensure that an employee in the field office responds to and attempts to resolve each complaint that is filed with the field office.  If a complaint cannot be resolved at the field office level, the ombudsman in the field office shall refer the complaint to the chief ombudsman.
(d)  The Title IV-D agency shall maintain a file on each written complaint filed with the Title IV-D agency.  The file must include:
(1)  the name of the person who filed the complaint;
(2)  the date the complaint is received by the Title IV-D agency;
(3)  the subject matter of the complaint;
(4)  the name of each person contacted in relation to the complaint;
(5)  a summary of the results of the review or investigation of the complaint;  and
(6)  an explanation of the reason the file was closed, if the agency closed the file without taking action other than to investigate the complaint.
(e)  The Title IV-D agency, at least quarterly until final disposition of the complaint, shall notify the person filing the complaint and each person who is a subject of the complaint of the status of the investigation of the complaint unless the notice would jeopardize an undercover investigation.
(f)  The Title IV-D agency shall provide to the person filing the complaint and to each person who is a subject of the complaint a copy of the Title IV-D agency's policies and procedures relating to complaint investigation and resolution.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 54, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.120. Toll-Free Telephone Number for Employers

Sec. 231.120.  TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR EMPLOYERS.  The Title IV-D agency shall maintain a toll-free telephone number at which personnel are available during normal business hours to answer questions from employers responsible for withholding child support.  The Title IV-D agency shall inform employers about the toll-free telephone number.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 54, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.121. Availability of Brochures

Sec. 231.121.  AVAILABILITY OF BROCHURES.  The Title IV-D agency shall ensure that all Title IV-D brochures published by the agency are available to the public at courthouses where family law cases are heard in the state.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 141, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.1211. Informational Materials on Standard Possession Order

Sec. 231.1211.  INFORMATIONAL MATERIALS ON STANDARD POSSESSION ORDER.  (a) The Title IV-D agency shall create informational materials that describe the possession schedule under the standard possession order under Subchapter F, Chapter 153, including any alternate schedules or elections available to conservators.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency shall make the informational materials described by Subsection (a) available on the agency's Internet website and distribute printed copies of those materials on request.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 896 (H.B. 3203), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2021.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 967 (S.B. 1936), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.122. Monitoring Child Support Cases; Enforcement

Sec. 231.122.  MONITORING CHILD SUPPORT CASES; ENFORCEMENT.  The Title IV-D agency shall monitor each Title IV-D case from the date the agency begins providing services on the case.  If a child support obligor in a Title IV-D case becomes more than 60 days delinquent in paying child support, the Title IV-D agency shall expedite the commencement of an action to enforce the child support order.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 268 (S.B. 6), Sec. 1.10, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.123. Cooperation With Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Programs

Sec. 231.123.  COOPERATION WITH VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS.  (a)  In order to maximize the amount of any tax refund to which an obligor may be entitled and which may be applied to child support, medical support, and dental support obligations, the Title IV-D agency shall cooperate with volunteer income tax assistance programs in the state in informing obligors of the availability of the programs.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency shall publicize the services of the volunteer income tax assistance programs by distributing printed materials regarding the programs and by placing information regarding the programs on the agency's Internet website.
(c)  The Title IV-D agency is not responsible for producing or paying the costs of producing the printed materials distributed in accordance with Subsection (b).
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 925 (H.B. 401), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
Renumbered from Family Code, Section 231.122 by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 921 (H.B. 3167), Sec. 17.001(22), eff. September 1, 2007.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1150 (S.B. 550), Sec. 45, eff. September 1, 2018.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter B. Services Provided by Title Iv-D Program › Section 231.124. Child Support Arrearages Payment Incentive Program

Sec. 231.124.  CHILD SUPPORT ARREARAGES PAYMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency may establish and administer a payment incentive program to promote payment by obligors who are delinquent in satisfying child support arrearages assigned to the Title IV-D agency under Section 231.104(a).
(b)  A program established under this section must provide to a participating obligor a credit for every dollar amount paid by the obligor on interest and arrearages balances during each month of the obligor's voluntary enrollment in the program.  In establishing a program under this section, the Title IV-D agency by rule must prescribe:
(1)  criteria for a child support obligor's initial eligibility to participate in the program;
(2)  the conditions for a child support obligor's continued participation in the program;
(3)  procedures for enrollment in the program; and
(4)  the terms of the financial incentives to be offered under the program.
(c)  The Title IV-D agency shall provide eligible obligors with notice of the program and enrollment instructions.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 508 (H.B. 1674), Sec. 13, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.201. Definitions

Sec. 231.201.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Federal share" means the portion of allowable expenses for fees and other costs that will be reimbursed by the federal government under federal law and regulations regarding the administration of the Title IV-D program.
(2)  "State share" means the portion of allowable expenses for fees and other costs that remain after receipt of the federal share of reimbursement and that is to be reimbursed by the state or may be contributed by certified public expenditure by a county.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.202. Authorized Costs and Fees in Title Iv-D Cases

Sec. 231.202.  AUTHORIZED COSTS AND FEES IN TITLE IV-D CASES.  In a Title IV-D case filed under this title, including a case filed under Chapter 159, the Title IV-D agency shall pay only the following costs and fees:
(1)  filing fees and fees for issuance and service of process as provided by Chapter 110 of this code and by Sections 51.318(b)(2) and 51.319(2), Government Code;
(2)  fees for transfer as provided by Chapter 110;
(3)  fees for the issuance and delivery of orders and writs of income withholding in the amounts provided by Chapter 110;
(4)  the fee for services provided by sheriffs and constables, including:
(A)  a fee authorized under Section 118.131, Local Government Code, for serving each item of process to each individual on whom service is required, including service by certified or registered mail; and
(B)  a fee authorized under Section 157.103(b) for serving a capias;
(5)  the fee for filing an administrative writ of withholding under Section 158.503(d); and
(6)  the fee for issuance of a subpoena as provided by Section 51.318(b)(1), Government Code.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 341, Sec. 1.04, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 7.21(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 116, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1217, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 49, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 767 (S.B. 865), Sec. 28, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1290 (H.B. 2302), Sec. 15, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 472 (S.B. 41), Sec. 4.05, eff. January 1, 2022.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.2025. Contingency Fees

Sec. 231.2025.  CONTINGENCY FEES.  The Title IV-D agency may pay a contingency fee in a contract or agreement between the agency and a private agency or individual authorized under Section 231.002(c).
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 420, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.203. State Exemption From Bond Not Affected

Sec. 231.203.  STATE EXEMPTION FROM BOND NOT AFFECTED.  This subchapter does not affect, nor is this subchapter affected by, the exemption from bond provided by Section 6.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.204. Prohibited Fees in Title Iv-D Cases

Sec. 231.204.  PROHIBITED FEES IN TITLE IV-D CASES.  Except as provided by this subchapter, an appellate court, a clerk of an appellate court, a district or county clerk, sheriff, constable, or other government officer or employee may not charge the Title IV-D agency or a private attorney or political subdivision that has entered into a contract to provide Title IV-D services any fees or other amounts otherwise imposed by law for services rendered in, or in connection with, a Title IV-D case, including:
(1)  a fee payable to a district clerk for:
(A)  performing services related to the estates of deceased persons or minors;
(B)  certifying copies; or
(C)  comparing copies to originals;
(2)  a court reporter fee, except as provided by Section 231.209;
(3)  a judicial fund fee;
(4)  a fee for a child support registry, enforcement office, or domestic relations office;
(5)  a fee for alternative dispute resolution services;
(6)  a filing fee or other costs payable to a clerk of an appellate court; and
(7)  a statewide electronic filing system fund fee.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 55, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1023, Sec. 55, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 742 (S.B. 355), Sec. 10, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1290 (H.B. 2302), Sec. 16, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.205. Limitations on Liability of Attorney General for Authorized Fees and Costs

Sec. 231.205.  LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY OF ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR AUTHORIZED FEES AND COSTS.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency is liable for a fee or cost under this subchapter only to the extent that an express, specific appropriation is made to the agency exclusively for that purpose.  To the extent that state funds are not available, the amount of costs and fees that are not reimbursed by the federal government and that represent the state share shall be paid by certified public expenditure by the county through the clerk of the court, sheriff, or constable.  This section does not prohibit the agency from spending other funds appropriated for child support enforcement to provide the initial expenditures necessary to qualify for the federal share.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency is liable for the payment of the federal share of reimbursement for fees and costs under this subchapter only to the extent that the federal share is received, and if an amount is paid by the agency and that amount is disallowed by the federal government or the federal share is not otherwise received, the clerk of the court, sheriff, or constable to whom the payment was made shall return the amount to the agency not later than the 30th day after the date on which notice is given by the agency.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.206. Restriction on Fees for Child Support or Registry Services in Title Iv-D Cases

Sec. 231.206.  RESTRICTION ON FEES FOR CHILD SUPPORT OR REGISTRY SERVICES IN TITLE IV-D CASES.  A district clerk, a county child support registry or enforcement office, or a domestic relations office may not assess or collect fees for processing child support payments or for child support services from the Title IV-D agency, a managing conservator, or a possessory conservator in a Title IV-D case, except as provided by this subchapter.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.207. Method of Billing for Allowable Fees

Sec. 231.207.  METHOD OF BILLING FOR ALLOWABLE FEES.  (a)  To be entitled to reimbursement under this subchapter, the clerk of the court, sheriff, or constable must submit one monthly billing to the Title IV-D agency.
(b)  The monthly billing must be in the form and manner prescribed by the Title IV-D agency and be approved by the clerk, sheriff, or constable.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.208. Agreements for Reimbursement in Lieu of Fees

Sec. 231.208.  AGREEMENTS FOR REIMBURSEMENT IN LIEU OF FEES.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency and a qualified county may enter into a written agreement under which reimbursement for salaries and certain other actual costs incurred by the clerk, sheriff, or constable in Title IV-D cases is provided to the county.
(b)  A county may not enter into an agreement for reimbursement under this section unless the clerk, sheriff, or constable providing service has at least two full-time employees each devoted exclusively to providing services in Title IV-D cases.
(c)  Reimbursement made under this section is in lieu of all costs and fees provided by this subchapter.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.209. Payment for Services Not Affected by This Subchapter

Sec. 231.209.  PAYMENT FOR SERVICES NOT AFFECTED BY THIS SUBCHAPTER.  Without regard to this subchapter and specifically Section 231.205, the Title IV-D agency may pay the costs for:
(1)  the services of an official court reporter for the preparation of statements of facts;
(2)  the costs for the publication of citation served by publication;  and
(3)  mileage or other reasonable travel costs incurred by a sheriff or constable when traveling out of the county to execute an outstanding warrant or capias, to be reimbursed at a rate not to exceed the rate provided for mileage or other costs incurred by state employees in the General Appropriations Act.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 341, Sec. 1.05, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.210. Authority to Pay Litigation Expenses

Sec. 231.210.  AUTHORITY TO PAY LITIGATION EXPENSES.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency may pay all fees, expenses, costs, and bills necessary to secure evidence and to take the testimony of a witness, including advance payments or purchases for transportation, lodging, meals, and incidental expenses of custodians of evidence or witnesses whose transportation is necessary and proper for the production of evidence or the taking of testimony in a Title IV-D case.
(b)  In making payments under this section, the Title IV-D agency shall present vouchers to the comptroller that have been sworn to by the custodian or witness and approved by the agency.  The voucher shall be sufficient to authorize payment without the necessity of a written contract.
(c)  The Title IV-D agency may directly pay a commercial transportation company or commercial lodging establishment for the expense of transportation or lodging of a custodian or witness.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter C. Payment of Fees and Costs › Section 231.211. Award of Cost Against Nonprevailing Party in Title Iv-D Case

Sec. 231.211.  AWARD OF COST AGAINST NONPREVAILING PARTY IN TITLE IV-D CASE.  (a)  At the conclusion of a Title IV-D case, the court may assess attorney's fees and all court costs as authorized by law against the nonprevailing party, except that the court may not assess those amounts against the Title IV-D agency or a private attorney or political subdivision that has entered into a contract under this chapter or any party to whom the agency has provided services under this chapter.  Such fees and costs may not exceed reasonable and necessary costs as determined by the court.
(b)  The clerk of the court may take any action necessary to collect any fees or costs assessed under this section.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.301. Title Iv-D Parent Locator Services

Sec. 231.301.  TITLE IV-D PARENT LOCATOR SERVICES.  (a)  The parent locator service conducted by the Title IV-D agency shall be used to obtain information for:
(1)  child support establishment and enforcement purposes regarding the identity, social security number, location, employer and employment benefits, income, and assets or debts of any individual under an obligation to pay child support, medical support, or dental support or to whom a support obligation is owed; or
(2)  the establishment of paternity.
(b)  As authorized by federal law, the following persons may receive information under this section:
(1)  a person or entity that contracts with the Title IV-D agency to provide services authorized under Title IV-D or an employee of the Title IV-D agency;
(2)  an attorney who has the duty or authority, by law, to enforce an order for possession of or access to a child;
(3)  a court, or an agent of the court, having jurisdiction to render or enforce an order for possession of or access to a child;
(4)  the resident parent, legal guardian, attorney, or agent of a child who is not receiving public assistance;  and
(5)  a state agency that administers a program operated under a state plan as provided by 42 U.S.C. Section 653(c).
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 76, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 56, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1150 (S.B. 550), Sec. 46, eff. September 1, 2018.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.303. Title Iv-D Administrative Subpoena

Sec. 231.303.  TITLE IV-D ADMINISTRATIVE SUBPOENA.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency of this state or another state may issue an administrative subpoena to any individual or private or public entity in this state to furnish information necessary to carry out the purposes of child support enforcement under 42 U.S.C. Section 651 et seq. or this chapter.
(b)  An individual or entity receiving an administrative subpoena under this section shall comply with the subpoena.  The Title IV-D agency may impose a fine in an amount not to exceed $500 on an individual or entity that fails without good cause to comply with an administrative subpoena.  An alleged or presumed father or a parent who fails to comply with a subpoena without good cause may also be subject to license suspension under Chapter 232.
(c)  A court may compel compliance with an administrative subpoena and with any administrative fine for failure to comply with the subpoena and may award attorney's fees and costs to the Title IV-D agency in enforcing an administrative subpoena on proof that an individual or organization failed without good cause to comply with the subpoena.
(d)  An individual or organization may not be liable in a civil action or proceeding for disclosing financial or other information to a Title IV-D agency under this section.  The Title IV-D agency may disclose information in a financial record obtained from a financial institution only to the extent necessary:
(1)  to establish, modify, or enforce a child support obligation;  or
(2)  to comply with Section 233.001, as added by Chapter 420, Acts of the 75th Legislature, Regular Session, 1997.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 20, Sec. 1, eff. April 20, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 78, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 859, Sec. 5, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.305. Memorandum of Understanding on Child Support for Children Receiving Public Assistance

Sec. 231.305.  MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON CHILD SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN RECEIVING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency and the Texas Department of Human Services by rule shall adopt a memorandum of understanding governing the establishment and enforcement of court-ordered child support in cases involving children who receive financial assistance under Chapter 31, Human Resources Code.  The memorandum shall require the agency and the department to:
(1)  develop procedures to ensure that the information the department is required to collect to establish and enforce child support:
(A)  is collected from the person applying to receive the financial assistance at the time the application is filed;
(B)  is accurate and complete when the department forwards the information to the agency;
(C)  is not information previously reported to the agency;  and
(D)  is forwarded to the agency in an expeditious manner;
(2)  develop procedures to ensure that the agency does not duplicate the efforts of the department in gathering necessary information;
(3)  clarify each agency's responsibilities in the establishment and enforcement of child support;
(4)  develop guidelines for use by eligibility workers and child support enforcement officers in obtaining from an applicant the information required to establish and enforce child support for that child;
(5)  develop training programs for appropriate department personnel to enhance the collection of information for child support enforcement;
(6)  develop a standard time, not to exceed 30 days, for the department to initiate a sanction on request from the agency;
(7)  develop procedures for agency participation in department appeal hearings relating to noncompliance sanctions;
(8)  develop performance measures regarding the timeliness and the number of sanctions resulting from agency requests for noncompliance sanctions;  and
(9)  prescribe:
(A)  the time in which the department is required to forward information under Subdivision (1)(D);  and
(B)  what constitutes complete information under Subdivision (1)(B).
(b)  The Title IV-D agency and the Texas Department of Human Services shall review and renew or modify the memorandum not later than January 1 of each even-numbered year.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 341, Sec. 1.07, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 57, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.306. Maximizing Medical Support and Dental Support Establishment and Collection by the Title Iv-D Agency

Sec. 231.306.  MAXIMIZING MEDICAL SUPPORT AND DENTAL SUPPORT ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION BY THE TITLE IV-D AGENCY.  (a)  On the installation of an automated child support enforcement system, the Title IV-D agency is strongly encouraged to:
(1)  maximize the collection of medical support and dental support; and
(2)  establish cash medical support orders for children eligible for medical assistance under the state Medicaid program for whom private insurance coverage is not available.
(b)  In this section:
(1)  "Medical support" has the meaning assigned by Section 101.020.
(2)  "Dental support" has the meaning assigned by Section 101.0095.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 341, Sec. 2.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1150 (S.B. 550), Sec. 47, eff. September 1, 2018.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.307. Financial Institution Data Matches

Sec. 231.307.  FINANCIAL INSTITUTION DATA MATCHES.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency shall develop a system meeting the requirements of federal law (42 U.S.C. Sections 666(a)(4) and (17)) for the exchange of data with financial institutions doing business in the state to identify an account of an obligor owing past-due child support and to enforce support obligations against the obligor, including the imposition of a lien and a levy and execution on an obligor's assets held in financial institutions as required by federal law (42 U.S.C. Section 666(c)(1)(G)).
(b)  The Title IV-D agency by rule shall establish procedures for data matches authorized under this section.
(c)  The Title IV-D agency may enter into an agreement with one or more states to create a consortium for data matches authorized under this section.  The Title IV-D agency may contract with a vendor selected by the consortium to perform data matches with financial institutions.
(d)  A financial institution providing information or responding to a notice of child support lien or levy provided under Subchapter G, Chapter 157, or otherwise acting in good faith to comply with the Title IV-D agency's procedures under this section may not be liable under any federal or state law for any damages that arise from those acts.
(e)  In this section:
(1)  "Financial institution" has the meaning assigned by Section 157.311;  and
(2)  "Account" has the meaning assigned by Section 157.311.
(f)  A financial institution participating in data matches authorized by this section may provide the Title IV-D agency an address for the purpose of service of notices or process required in actions under this section or Subchapter G, Chapter 157.
(g)  This section does not apply to an insurer subject to the reporting requirements under Section 231.015.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 79, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 58, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1023, Sec. 57, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 508 (H.B. 1674), Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.308. Public Identification of Certain Obligors

Sec. 231.308.  PUBLIC IDENTIFICATION OF CERTAIN OBLIGORS.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency shall develop a program to identify publicly certain child support obligors who are delinquent in the payment of child support.  The program shall include the displaying of photographs and profiles of obligors in public and private locations.  The Title IV-D agency shall use posters, the news media, and other cost-effective methods to display photographs and profiles of certain obligors who are in arrears in paying child support.  The Title IV-D agency shall divide the state into at least six regions for local identification of certain child support obligors who are delinquent in the payment of child support.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency may not disclose information under this section that is by law required to remain confidential.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 420, Sec. 21, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 231 - Title Iv-D Services › Subchapter D. Location of Parents and Resources › Section 231.309. Rewards for Information

Sec. 231.309.  REWARDS FOR INFORMATION.  (a)  The Title IV-D agency may offer a reward to an individual who provides information to the agency that leads to the collection of child support owed by an obligor who is delinquent in paying support.
(b)  The Title IV-D agency shall adopt rules providing for the amounts of rewards offered under this section and the circumstances under which an individual providing information described in Subsection (a) is entitled to receive a reward.
(c)  A reward paid under this section shall be paid from the child support retained collections account.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 420, Sec. 21, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.001. Definitions

Sec. 232.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "License" means a license, certificate, registration, permit, or other authorization that:
(A)  is issued by a licensing authority;
(B)  is subject before expiration to renewal, suspension, revocation, forfeiture, or termination by a licensing authority; and
(C)  a person must obtain to:
(i)  practice or engage in a particular business, occupation, or profession;
(ii)  operate a motor vehicle on a public highway in this state; or
(iii)  engage in any other regulated activity, including hunting, fishing, or other recreational activity for which a license or permit is required.
(2)  "Licensing authority" means a department, commission, board, office, or other agency of the state or a political subdivision of the state that issues or renews a license or that otherwise has authority to suspend or refuse to renew a license.
(3)  "Order suspending license" means an order issued by the Title IV-D agency or a court directing a licensing authority to suspend or refuse to renew a license.
(3-a)  "Renewal" means any instance when a licensing authority:
(A)  renews, extends, recertifies, or reissues a license; or
(B)  periodically certifies a licensee to be in good standing with the licensing authority based on the required payment of fees or dues or the performance of some other mandated action or activity.
(4)  "Subpoena" means a judicial or administrative subpoena issued in a parentage determination or child support proceeding under this title.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 82, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1023, Sec. 58, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 50, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 859 (S.B. 1726), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.002. Licensing Authorities Subject to Chapter

Sec. 232.002.  LICENSING AUTHORITIES SUBJECT TO CHAPTER.  Unless otherwise restricted or exempted, all licensing authorities are subject to this chapter.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 7.22, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1280, Sec. 1.02, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1288, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1254, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1477, Sec. 23, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 394, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 553, Sec. 2.003, eff. Feb. 1, 2004.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 798 (S.B. 411), Sec. 4.01, eff. September 1, 2005.
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 51, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.0021. Application of Chapter to Texas Lottery Commission

Sec. 232.0021.  APPLICATION OF CHAPTER TO TEXAS LOTTERY COMMISSION.  With respect to the Texas Lottery Commission, this chapter applies only to a lottery ticket sales agent license issued under Chapter 466, Government Code.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 394, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.0022. Suspension or Nonrenewal of Motor Vehicle Registration

Sec. 232.0022.  SUSPENSION OR NONRENEWAL OF MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION.  (a)  The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is the appropriate licensing authority for suspension or nonrenewal of a motor vehicle registration under this chapter.
(b)  The suspension or nonrenewal of a motor vehicle registration under this chapter does not:
(1)  encumber the title to the motor vehicle or otherwise affect the transfer of the title to the vehicle; or
(2)  affect the sale, purchase, or registration of the motor vehicle by a person who holds a general distinguishing number issued under Chapter 503, Transportation Code.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 52, eff. September 1, 2007.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 933 (H.B. 3097), Sec. 3C.02, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.003. Suspension of License

Sec. 232.003.  SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.  (a)  A court or the Title IV-D agency may issue an order suspending a license as provided by this chapter if an individual who is an obligor:
(1)  owes overdue child support in an amount equal to or greater than the total support due for three months under a support order;
(2)  has been provided an opportunity to make payments toward the overdue child support under a court-ordered or agreed repayment schedule;  and
(3)  has failed to comply with the repayment schedule.
(b)  A court or the Title IV-D agency may issue an order suspending a license as provided by this chapter if a parent or alleged parent has failed, after receiving appropriate notice, to comply with a subpoena.
(c)  A court may issue an order suspending license as provided by this chapter for an individual for whom a court has rendered an enforcement order under Chapter 157 finding that the individual has failed to comply with the terms of a court order providing for the possession of or access to a child.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 420, Sec. 22, 23, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 83, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 59, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 724, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1023, Sec. 59, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.004. Petition for Suspension of License

Sec. 232.004.  PETITION FOR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.  (a)  A child support agency or obligee may file a petition to suspend, as provided by this chapter, a license of an obligor who has an arrearage equal to or greater than the total support due for three months under a support order.
(b)  In a Title IV-D case, the petition shall be filed with the Title IV-D agency, the court of continuing jurisdiction, or the tribunal in which a child support order has been registered under Chapter 159.  The tribunal in which the petition is filed obtains jurisdiction over the matter.
(c)  In a case other than a Title IV-D case, the petition shall be filed in the court of continuing jurisdiction or the court in which a child support order has been registered under Chapter 159.
(d)  A proceeding in a case filed with the Title IV-D agency under this chapter is governed by the contested case provisions of Chapter 2001, Government Code, except that Section 2001.054 does not apply to the proceeding.  The director of the Title IV-D agency or the director's designee may render a final decision in a contested case proceeding under this chapter.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 420, Sec. 24, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 84, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 556, Sec. 60, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 53, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.005. Contents of Petition

Sec. 232.005.  CONTENTS OF PETITION.  (a)  A petition under this chapter must state that license suspension is required under Section 232.003 and allege:
(1)  the name and, if known, social security number of the individual;
(2)  the name of the licensing authority that issued a license the individual is believed to hold; and
(3)  the amount of arrearages owed under the child support order or the facts associated with the individual's failure to comply with:
(A)  a subpoena; or
(B)  the terms of a court order providing for the possession of or access to a child.
(b)  A petition under this chapter may include as an attachment a copy of:
(1)  the record of child support payments maintained by the Title IV-D registry or local registry;
(2)  the subpoena with which the individual has failed to comply, together with proof of service of the subpoena;  or
(3)  with respect to a petition for suspension under Section 232.003(c):
(A)  the enforcement order rendered under Chapter 157 describing the manner in which the individual was found to have not complied with the terms of a court order providing for the possession of or access to a child;  and
(B)  the court order containing the provisions that the individual was found to have violated.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 724, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1023, Sec. 60, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 767 (S.B. 865), Sec. 29, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.006. Notice

Sec. 232.006.  NOTICE.  (a)  On the filing of a petition under Section 232.004, the clerk of the court or the Title IV-D agency shall deliver to the individual:
(1)  notice of the individual's right to a hearing before the court or agency;
(2)  notice of the deadline for requesting a hearing;  and
(3)  a hearing request form if the proceeding is in a Title IV-D case.
(b)  Notice under this section may be served:
(1)  if the party has been ordered under Chapter 105 to provide the court and registry with the party's current mailing address, by mailing a copy of the notice to the respondent, together with a copy of the petition, by first class mail to the last mailing address of the respondent on file with the court and the state case registry; or
(2)  as in civil cases generally.
(c)  The notice must contain the following prominently displayed statement in boldfaced type, capital letters, or underlined:
"AN ACTION TO SUSPEND ONE OR MORE LICENSES ISSUED TO YOU HAS BEEN FILED AS PROVIDED BY CHAPTER 232, TEXAS FAMILY CODE.  YOU MAY EMPLOY AN ATTORNEY TO REPRESENT YOU IN THIS ACTION.  IF YOU OR YOUR ATTORNEY DO NOT REQUEST A HEARING BEFORE THE 21ST DAY AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE, AN ORDER SUSPENDING YOUR LICENSE MAY BE RENDERED."
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 86, eff;  Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 976, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 178, Sec. 11, eff. Aug. 30, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 972 (S.B. 228), Sec. 54, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Family Code › Title 5 - The Parent-Child Relationship and the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship › Subtitle D - Administrative Services › Chapter 232 - Suspension of License › Section 232.007. Hearing on Petition to Suspend License

Sec. 232.007.  HEARING ON PETITION TO SUSPEND LICENSE.  (a)  A request for a hearing and motion to stay suspension must be filed with the court or Title IV-D agency by the individual not later than the 20th day after the date of service of the notice under Section 232.006.
(b)  If a request for a hearing is filed, the court or Title IV-D agency shall:
(1)  promptly schedule a hearing;
(2)  notify each party of the date, time, and location of the hearing;  and
(3)  stay suspension pending the hearing.
(c)  In a case involving support arrearages, a record of child support payments made by the Title IV-D agency or a local registry is evidence of whether the payments were made.  A copy of the record appearing regular on its face shall be admitted as evidence at a hearing under this chapter, including a hearing on a motion to revoke a stay.  Either party may offer controverting evidence.
(d)  In a case in which an individual has failed to comply with a subpoena, proof of service is evidence of delivery of the subpoena.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 655, Sec. 5.03, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 751, Sec. 85, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 911, Sec. 87, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.