S.B. No. 1383 aims to regulate referral agencies that assist consumers in finding senior living communities in Texas. The bill introduces Chapter 121 to the Business & Commerce Code, defining "referral agency" as an entity that provides referrals for a fee, while excluding senior living communities and individuals who refer consumers without receiving compensation. It also defines "senior living community" to encompass various types of facilities that cater to elderly individuals, such as assisted living and memory care facilities. Additionally, the bill allows for written contracts between referral agencies and senior living communities to specify compensation arrangements, which can include lump sums, fees based on rent and care costs, or fixed fees for each referral.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 102.005 of the Occupations Code to clarify that the existing regulations do not apply to referral agencies as defined in the new chapter. This inclusion ensures that referral agencies are recognized as distinct entities within the regulatory framework. 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: Occupations Code 102.005 (Occupations Code 102)