S.B. No. 1137 amends the Health and Safety Code by redesignating Chapter 769 as Chapter 767 and introduces new regulations concerning group homes. The bill defines a "group home" and outlines exemptions for certain facilities, such as licensed establishments and retirement communities. It mandates that owners or operators of group homes must obtain criminal history record information for all applicants and employees, prohibiting the hiring of individuals with specific criminal convictions. Violations of this requirement are classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

Additionally, the bill establishes regulations for group home consultants, defining their role and outlining restrictions on referrals to unlicensed or unpermitted group homes. Consultants may only refer potential residents to such homes under specific conditions, such as the absence of licensed options in the area or financial constraints faced by the potential resident. They are also required to inform potential residents of any known complaints against the unlicensed group home. Violating these provisions constitutes a Class B misdemeanor. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.