The bill, S.B. No. 1567, seeks to amend Chapter 211 of the Local Government Code by adding Subchapter D, which establishes regulations regarding the occupancy of dwelling units in home-rule municipalities. It defines a "dwelling unit" and specifies that municipalities cannot adopt zoning ordinances or regulations that limit occupancy based on age, familial status, occupation, relationship status, or the degree of relatedness among occupants. However, the bill clarifies that municipalities retain the authority to impose occupancy limits based on health and safety standards, such as building codes and fire codes, as well as guidelines from affordable housing programs.

Additionally, the bill states that it does not interfere with property owners' associations or private agreements that may impose their own occupancy rules. It also allows property owners to take legal action against municipalities for damages if they violate the provisions of this subchapter, waiving governmental immunity to the extent of liability created by this section. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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