Bill > SB1782

This bill modifies the regulation of group homes by establishing new requirements for criminal history record information for applicants and employees. Specifically, the bill defines a group home as an establishment providing lodging to three or more unrelated residents and offering services like meal preparation and transportation, while excluding certain types of facilities such as licensed care centers, hotels, and dormitories. The bill mandates that group home owners or operators must obtain criminal history record information for all job applicants and employees, and maintain those records for at least 30 days after a position is filled or for the duration of an employee's employment. Owners and operators are prohibited from hiring or retaining individuals with convictions related to specific criminal offenses, primarily serious crimes outlined in various Penal Code chapters. Violations of these requirements can result in criminal penalties: failing to obtain or maintain criminal history records is a Class B misdemeanor, while hiring someone with a disqualifying criminal history is a Class A misdemeanor. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies only to employment applications submitted on or after that date.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1782