A series of new Texas family laws went into effect this week, reshaping custody disputes, child support obligations and school choice rights for divorced parents. The changes are already stirring controversy across the state.
One of the most debated measures addresses gender identity. The new law clarifies that a parent’s refusal to use a child’s preferred name or pronouns — or refusal to affirm a child’s gender identity — does not constitute child abuse under the Family Code.
“This law goes a step further than the 2023 ban on gender-affirming medical care for minors, which the Texas Supreme Court upheld,” said Houston family law attorney Charlotte Rainwater. “Transgender family advocates see this as a a loss, while conservative groups consider it a major win for preserving family values.”
Another provision bans an extreme form of therapy that’s aimed to help children who have been alienated from a parent. The therapy involves temporarily separating a child from the parent accused of “poisoning” the relationship and placing the child with a therapist and the estranged parent in an effort to “de-program” them before reuniting the family.
“The new law specifically prohibits this intensive version of therapy — especially when it involves isolating the child from a parent or requiring overnight programs,” Rainwater said. “Texas now joins several other states in moving away from the practice.”
Lawmakers also approved a so-called “three strikes” rule to address cases where a parent denies the other parent court-ordered access to a child. Under the law, a parent found in contempt three times for withholding visitation could lose custody altogether.
“In the past, this behavior often resulted in little more than a slap on the hand,” Rainwater said. “Now, there are serious consequences, and I think children will ultimately benefit in the long run.”
Two other major changes are expected to have widespread impact. The maximum child support payment in Texas rose by about $500, increasing the cap to $2,340 per month for one child when the paying parent’s net yearly income exceeds $140,000. Advocates say the increase reflects higher living costs across the state.
The new school voucher law also prompted adjustments to the Family Code. Moving forward, one parent will have the exclusive right to enroll a child in school, ensuring that parent can use a voucher without requiring the other parent’s agreement or a court order in contested cases.
“These changes are significant,” Rainwater said. “From financial obligations to educational rights, divorced parents will feel the impact in many areas of family life.”