SECTION 707.483. Are there certain allegations we do not classify as reports of abuse or neglect?

(a) We will not classify reports about the following types of circumstances as allegations of abuse or neglect or risk of abuse or neglect:

(1) Truancy. Voluntary absence from school without a valid excuse.

(2) Runaway. A child who is voluntarily absent from the home without the consent of the parent or guardian.

(3) Children in need of supervision (CHINS). Children from ages 10 to 17 who are before a juvenile court for offenses under the Texas Family Code, §51.03(b).

(4) Latch-key children. School-age children left unattended part of the day, whose parents have taken appropriate precautions to assure the children's safety; and

(5) Harmful or violent children. Children who harm or commit violent acts against other children but are not members of the alleged victim's family or household, and who are not themselves abused or neglected.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section, if there are allegations in the report that otherwise meet the definition of abuse or neglect, we will investigate those allegations in accordance with this division.

Source Note: The provisions of this §707.483 adopted to be effective July 15, 2020, 45 TexReg 4780