The bill, S.B. No. 845, amends the Government Code to expand the eligibility criteria for the Homes for Texas Heroes home loan program to include social workers. Specifically, it adds "social worker" to the definitions of eligible professions in Section 2306.5621(a) and includes them in the list of professionals who can apply for low-interest home mortgage loans. The bill also defines "social worker" by referencing Section 505.002 of the Occupations Code, ensuring clarity in the eligibility requirements.

In addition to the inclusion of social workers, the bill maintains existing provisions regarding the eligibility criteria for applicants, 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 agencies to verify applicants' qualifications. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 2306.5621 (Government Code 2306)