The bill proposes the establishment of the Texas Tenant Readiness and Landlord Incentive Pilot Program, which will be implemented by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. This program aims to provide funding and assistance to local governmental entities and nonprofit organizations to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or at high risk of housing instability. The program will allow selected entities to offer financial assistance, not exceeding $3,500 per household, to cover various costs associated with obtaining housing, such as initial housing searches, security deposits, and utility services. Additionally, the program includes incentives for landlords who participate.

The bill also amends the definition of "residential development" in the Local Government Code by removing a reference to the new program. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs is required to submit a report to the legislature by January 1, 2030, detailing the program's outcomes, including demographic information, financial assistance usage, housing outcomes, and experiences of the administering entities. The program is set to expire on September 1, 2030, and the act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 394.003 (Local Government Code 394)