Bill > SB1283

This bill establishes new safety requirements for senior retirement communities in Texas, defining such communities as residential properties with at least 20 units that provide common amenities and are primarily for seniors. The bill mandates that these communities conduct criminal history record checks for their employees, disclose whether contractors also perform such checks, and maintain a resident safety policy that requires prompt notification of potential criminal activities. Specifically, the community must send written notices to residents within two business days of known reports of potential criminal activity or criminal trespassing, with provisions to protect individual privacy by allowing the removal of personal identifying information. The bill also protects residents' rights by prohibiting retirement communities from preventing residents from communicating with law enforcement, social workers, or family members about safety concerns, and from obstructing law enforcement officers conducting voluntary interviews in common areas. Importantly, the bill provides immunity to senior retirement communities from civil or criminal liability for complying with these requirements. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and explicitly does not apply to certain healthcare facilities, boarding homes, and other regulated elderly housing facilities.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1283