Texas Administrative Code
Title 40 - SOCIAL SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE
Part 19 - DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Chapter 707 - CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATIONS
Subchapter A - INVESTIGATIONS
Division 3 - RELEASE HEARINGS
Section 707.573 - When do we release information about a designated perpetrator to outside parties?

(a) Subject to the limitations specified in subsections (b) and (c) of this section, we have the authority to conduct a release via a Non-Emergency or an Emergency Release.

(b) Before a Non-Emergency or Emergency Release is conducted, the release must be approved by:

(c) For a Nonemergency Release, before we conduct a release, our conclusion about your status as a designated perpetrator must be sustained as specified in §707.571(4) of this division (relating to What do the following pronouns, words, and terms mean when used in this division?), and there must be evidence that the risk of harm to one or more children or vulnerable adults is substantial.

(d) For an Emergency Release, we conduct a release when there is evidence that the risk of harm to one or more children or vulnerable adults is both substantial and immediate, in accordance with Texas Family Code 261.308(d). During an Emergency Release, we will act as quickly as possible and without regard for the timing of an appeal by you. In other words, we will release the information before the abuse or neglect conclusion is sustained. However, notice of the release in compliance with §707.575 of this division (relating to What are the notice requirements for a designated perpetrator when we release information to outside parties?) will be sent to you before the release is conducted. This notice will offer you a release hearing after the release has been conducted.