For expiration of Subsections (e) and (e-1), see Subsection (e-1).
Sec. 264.1078.  LUGGAGE FOR FOSTER CHILDREN.  (a) In this section, "luggage" means a suitcase, duffel bag, backpack, or similar container designed to hold an individual's personal belongings. 
(b)  The department shall:
(1)  establish and maintain a decentralized supply of luggage to be used to transport a foster child's personal belongings; and
(2)  develop procedures for the storage and distribution of luggage.
(c)  The department shall provide luggage to a child who is being removed from the child's home or changing placement.  Luggage provided to a child under this subsection belongs to the child and may not be reclaimed by the department or retained by the child's foster parent. The department is not required to provide new luggage under this subsection to a child who is changing placement and has the luggage previously provided by the department.
(d)  The department shall maintain a record of each time a trash bag is used to move a foster child's personal belongings. The record must include the reason the department did not provide the child with appropriate luggage to move the child's personal belongings. 
(e)  The department shall submit an annual report to the legislature that includes a summary of:
(1)  the number of times a trash bag was used to transport a foster child's personal belongings and the reasons the department failed to provide the child with appropriate luggage; and 
(2)  the department's supply inventory and inventory management practices for the luggage supply maintained under Subsection (b).
(e-1)  This subsection and Subsection (e) expire September 1, 2025. 
(f)  The department may solicit and accept gifts, grants, and donations of any kind and from any source for purposes of this section.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 540 (H.B. 3765), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.