Texas Senate Committee examines child abuse registry issues with Judy Powell and Jeremy Newman

The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding child welfare and the registry process for individuals accused of child abuse. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, including caseworkers and advocates, who highlighted significant concerns regarding the current system.

The session began with a discussion on the standards used by caseworkers when determining the necessity of child removal. A panelist emphasized that while intuition plays a role, legal standards require concrete evidence rather than subjective feelings. This led to a broader conversation about the reliability of affidavits, which often rely on hearsay and initial reports rather than direct evidence.

Committee members probed into the training and mentoring processes for caseworkers, confirming that new employees undergo extensive training, including hands-on experience in the field. However, concerns were raised about the adequacy of this training, particularly in high-stress environments involving families with substance abuse issues.

The discussion shifted to the registry of repeat offenders, with a committee member requesting data on how many individuals listed are repeat offenders. The panel indicated they would provide this information before the hearing concluded.

Testimonies from public witnesses included Judy Powell, a communications director at a parent guidance center, who shared a troubling case involving parents exonerated of abuse yet still placed on the registry. Powell argued that the system's flaws lead to unjust consequences for families, including restrictions on their ability to adopt or work with children despite being cleared of accusations.

Jeremy Newman, vice president of the Family Freedom Project, expressed support for proposed legislative changes aimed at reforming the registry process. He highlighted the disparity between the evidentiary standards used by caseworkers and those required in court, suggesting that the current system could lead to unjust outcomes for families.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the highlighted issues and a promise to provide further data on the registry. The committee's ongoing discussions reflect a critical examination of child welfare practices in Texas, with an emphasis on ensuring due process and protecting the rights of families.