S.B. No. 617 introduces new regulations regarding the conversion of municipal properties to house homeless individuals. It establishes Chapter 255 in the Local Government Code, which mandates that a municipality's governing body must hold a public hearing at least 90 days prior to the conversion of any property under its control for this purpose. The hearing must take place within a one-mile radius of the property, and notice of the hearing must be mailed to all residences and businesses within that same radius at least 36 hours in advance. If the governing body fails to comply with these requirements, individuals entitled to notice can seek injunctive relief in district court to prevent the conversion.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that in case of any conflict between this new chapter and existing municipal charter provisions regarding property conversion, the new chapter will take precedence. However, the requirements outlined in this section do not apply to properties converted for temporary shelter or housing during natural disasters, declared emergencies, or other life-threatening situations. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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