Federal Appeals Court Removes Judge from Texas Foster Care Case

The decision overturns a contempt finding and daily fine against Texas, citing judicial bias concerns.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Judge Janis Jack exhibited bias against Texas in a foster care lawsuit.
Judge Jack had imposed a $100,000-per-day fine on Texas for failing to address foster care issues; this fine has been overturned.
The appeals court highlighted Judge Jack's antagonistic demeanor as undermining the appearance of fairness in the case.
The lawsuit, ongoing since 2011, focuses on Texas' failures to protect children in its foster care system from abuse and neglect.
Plaintiffs plan to appeal the decision, emphasizing the importance of continued oversight to ensure the safety of Texas' foster children.