H.B. No. 1630 amends the Government Code to expand the eligibility criteria for the Homes for Texas Heroes home loan program to include social workers. Specifically, the bill adds "social worker" to the definition of "home" and includes it among the professions eligible for low-interest home mortgage loans. The bill also defines "social worker" by referencing Section 505.002 of the Occupations Code. This change allows social workers to qualify for the same benefits previously available only to fire fighters, corrections officers, county jailers, public security officers, peace officers, professional educators, veterans, and emergency medical services personnel.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for applicants seeking loans, which include being a resident of Texas and having an income not exceeding 115 percent of the area median family income. The corporation responsible for administering the program is authorized to contract with other state agencies or private entities to verify applicants' qualifications. The bill also stipulates that the corporation can utilize proceeds from the sale of bonds or other obligations to fund these loans, regardless of any changes to eligibility standards. 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.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 2306.5621 (Government Code 2306)
House Committee Report: Government Code 2306.5621 (Government Code 2306)