S.B. No. 243 amends the Government Code to strengthen the regulation of migrant labor housing facilities in Texas by revising civil penalties for violations. The bill introduces a new penalty structure, imposing a civil penalty of not less than $50 for each person occupying a facility in violation, replacing the previous penalty of $200 for each day the violation occurred. It also broadens the scope of who can initiate actions to collect these penalties, allowing not only the department and county attorneys but also the attorney general and migrant agricultural workers under certain conditions to take action.

Additionally, the legislation outlines a comprehensive complaint process, remediation requirements, and protections against retaliation for individuals reporting violations. It mandates that operators address complaints within specified timeframes, especially those posing imminent hazards, and emphasizes outreach and education for both migrant workers and facility operators regarding their rights and responsibilities. The bill also requires the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to provide information about migrant labor housing facilities in multiple languages and to conduct research to identify housing needs. The changes are set to be implemented by March 1, 2026, and will apply only to violations occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, September 1, 2025.

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