In Texas, there is no specific law that mandates including the non-custodial parent as an emergency contact. However, several factors should be considered:
Court Orders and Custody Agreements: Review any existing custody agreements or court orders. These documents may outline specific requirements for communication and information sharing between parents, including emergency contact information.
Parental Rights: Both custodial and non-custodial parents generally have rights to information about their child's welfare. Unless a court order restricts contact, it is often in the child's best interest for both parents to be reachable in emergencies.
School and Institutional Policies: Schools and other institutions may have their own policies regarding emergency contacts and may encourage or require including both parents for the child's safety and welfare.
Best Interests of the Child: From a practical standpoint, including both parents as emergency contacts can ensure that the child has access to parental support in emergencies.
If you have specific concerns or there are unusual circumstances (such as a restraining order), it may be wise to consult with a family law attorney to understand your obligations and rights fully.