Relating to the remote participation of certain persons in a proceeding for the issuance or modification of a protective order.

HB 4696 allows applicants and witnesses seeking or protected by a protective order to participate remotely in court hearings, unless a judge finds "good cause" to deny the request. It directly affects individuals involved in family court cases seeking or modifying protective orders, particularly those who may face safety risks or logistical barriers attending in person. The bill requires courts to provide a remote participation method upon written request, adding new provisions to Texas Family Code Sections 84.007 (for new orders) and 87.005 (for modifications). This change applies to all pending or future cases under Subtitle B, Title 4 of the Family Code starting September 1, 2025. The law aims to increase accessibility and safety for vulnerable individuals in protective order proceedings.