Relating to reimbursing certain Department of Family and Protective Services employees for certain legal expenses.

SB 1526 would allow the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to reimburse certain employees for legal costs related to their work. It covers two situations: (1) employees who were criminally prosecuted for work-related conduct (like child or disability protection duties) and found not guilty, up to $10,000 for attorney fees; and (2) current employees needing legal protection (like a restraining order) while working on similar duties, up to $5,000. The bill requires DFPS to adopt implementing rules and takes effect September 1, 2025. This directly affects DFPS staff involved in child welfare, elder care, or disability services.