A bill that bars anonymous tips of child abuse to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is now awaiting Gov. Greg Abbott's signature.
"Anonymous reporting can be weaponized in custody battles when parents are fighting over custody of children, somebody will call in an anonymous report to CPS," said Julia Hatcher, president of the Texas Association of Family Defense Attorneys.
"We think because reports are already confidential, there is no reason for anonymous reporting."
Opponents argue House Bill 63 may discourage reports of child abuse altogether.
"This bill does not prohibit anonymous reporting," Hatcher argued. "It simply redirects an anonymous reporter to law enforcement, and tells the reporter if you want to remain anonymous you can all 911."