Relating to the establishment of faith-based child-care facilities.

SB 2534 creates a legal framework allowing religious organizations to establish child-care facilities providing 24-hour care for foster youth in Texas. To operate such a facility, religious organizations must develop a well-being plan for foster youth, create staff training programs, and contract with licensed mental health providers. Each facility must be overseen by a committee including a religious leader, mental health professional, child welfare expert, and a local elected official. This bill aims to expand foster care capacity by integrating faith-based organizations into the state's child welfare system while ensuring oversight and mental health support for youth.