Relating to the role of advocacy and support groups in the juvenile justice system.

HB 5409 requires Texas juvenile justice departments to consult with advocacy and support groups when developing regionalization plans and allows these groups to provide on-site support services for youth in facilities if it benefits the child. The bill mandates departments to establish security and privacy procedures for such groups and prohibits denying access based on pending federal complaints or lawsuits against the department. It directly affects juvenile justice departments, advocacy/support groups, and children in state facilities by formalizing their involvement in care. Key provisions include mandatory consultation in planning, on-site service access with safeguards, and federal law exceptions for group access. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025.