The bill, H.B. No. 4726, introduces Chapter 763 to the Health and Safety Code, which establishes regulations regarding the provision of homeless services in Texas. It defines "homeless services" as those intended to benefit individuals experiencing homelessness, including shelter, medical care, meals, drug rehabilitation, job training, financial assistance, and mental health treatment. The chapter specifies that it does not apply to services provided at overnight shelters for the homeless.
A key provision of the bill prohibits organizations from offering homeless services within 1,000 feet of certain locations, including public or private primary or secondary school campuses, residential areas, and public parks. Additionally, organizations that violate this distance requirement will be ineligible to obtain necessary licenses, permits, or other authorizations to operate in the state. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()