Bill > SB485

This bill establishes new legal requirements for landlords of multiunit complexes that house elderly individuals, disabled individuals, or children during a disaster. Specifically, the bill requires these landlords to take reasonable precautions to protect residents during a disaster, including understanding and preparing for the unique needs of vulnerable populations (such as mobility assistance or medication access), training staff to help residents, informing residents about potential dangers, and providing a reliable system to alert residents about imminent risks and evacuation procedures. The landlord is prohibited from abandoning the complex during a disaster unless a mandatory evacuation has been officially ordered. The bill defines "disaster" according to existing government code and allows authorized residents (tenants or lease-authorized occupants) to bring legal action if a landlord fails to meet these duties of care. Importantly, the bill does not replace any existing legal duties landlords may have under other laws, but adds these specific disaster-related responsibilities. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving landlords time to prepare and implement the required measures.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB485