Bill > HB5456

This bill introduces new regulations for senior retirement communities to enhance resident safety from criminal activity. It defines a senior retirement community as a residential complex with at least 20 units that provides common amenities like security, dining, and housekeeping services. The bill requires these communities to conduct criminal history record checks for their employees and disclose whether service providers also perform background checks. Communities must maintain a resident safety and communications policy that mandates prompt written notifications to residents about potential criminal activities or trespassing incidents within two business days of occurrence. The policy allows for removing personal identifying information to protect individual privacy. The bill explicitly prohibits 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. Certain types of facilities, such as healthcare institutions, boarding homes, and supportive housing for elderly individuals, are exempted from these requirements. The bill provides legal protection for retirement communities complying with these new safety regulations and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5456