Bill > SB1310

This bill establishes new regulations for senior retirement communities by creating Chapter 786 in the Texas Health and Safety Code. The bill defines a senior retirement community as a residential property with at least 20 units that offers common amenities like concierge services, dining, housekeeping, and security, and is designed for seniors. The legislation requires these communities to develop and maintain a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes communication methods during disasters, on-site employee presence, food and supply provisions, evacuation options, regular resident emergency planning meetings, and resources for disaster preparation. The bill mandates that these emergency plans must be provided to residents and their families, and posted publicly within the community. Additionally, the bill prohibits senior retirement communities from preventing residents from communicating with external parties about health and safety concerns and from restricting access to residents during voluntary investigations. Lease and rental agreements must include a copy of the emergency response plan and cannot interfere with residents' advance directives or testamentary documents. The new requirements will take effect on January 1, 2026, and apply to new or renewed agreements starting from the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1310