HB 1966

AN ACT relating to a study on the housing needs of youth transitioning out

House Bill • Garcia, Josey | Ward Johnson

Filed

Bill introduced by legislator

Committee

Hearing

Passed Cmte

Calendar

Passed

Sent

Enrolled

Governor

Signed

Filed

Bill introduced by legislator

In Committee

Hearing Scheduled

Passed Committee

Floor Calendar

Passed Chamber

Sent to Other Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Sent to Governor

Signed into Law

89th Regular Session

Jan 14, 2025 - Jun 2, 2025 • Session ended

Awaiting Committee Assignment

Bill filed, pending referral to House committee

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Fiscal Note

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What This Bill Does

This Texas bill directs the Texas Interagency Council for the Homeless to conduct a comprehensive study on housing challenges faced by youth transitioning out of foster care and the juvenile justice system. The study will examine homelessness risks, assess unique housing needs for specific vulnerable populations (like dual-status children), evaluate current state agency programs, and develop legislative recommendations to improve youth transitions. By November 1, 2026, the council must submit a detailed report to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and the legislature, with the goal of developing targeted support strategies for at-risk youth.

Subject Areas

Family--Juvenile Delinquency Family--Child Protection FOSTER CARE Crimes--Juvenile Housing--Homeless Persons Family--Parent & Child HOMELESS, TEXAS INTERAGENCY COUNCIL FOR THE Interim Studies

Bill Text

relating to a study on the housing needs of youth transitioning out
of foster care or the juvenile justice system.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1.  (a)  In this section, "council" means the Texas
Interagency Council for the Homeless established under Subchapter
KK, Chapter 2306, Government Code.
(b)  The council shall conduct a study to examine the housing
needs of youth transitioning from foster care or the juvenile
justice system to independent living.
(c)  In conducting the study under this section, the council
(1)  examine the risk of homelessness for youth
transitioning out of foster care in this state;
(2)  examine the risk of homelessness for youth
transitioning out of the juvenile justice system in this state;
(3)  assess the unique housing needs of youth who:
(A)  have previously been classified as a dual
status child, as defined by Section 51.02, Family Code; and
(B)  are part of a disproportionately represented
population in foster care, the juvenile justice system, or both;
(4)  evaluate relevant programs and practices of state
agencies that seek to positively impact the transition of youth out
of foster care or the juvenile justice system; and
(5)  consult with individuals with expertise on issues
faced by youth transitioning out of foster care, the juvenile
(d)  Not later than November 1, 2026, the council shall
prepare and submit to the Texas Department of Housing and Community
Affairs and the legislature a written report that:
(1)  summarizes the results of the study conducted
(2)  includes legislative recommendations based on the
results of the study, including recommendations to improve the
transition of youth out of foster care and the juvenile justice
SECTION 2.  This Act expires December 31, 2026.
SECTION 3.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.