89R902 JG-D
 
  By: Walle H.B. No. 636
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to the implementation of a statewide homeless data sharing
  network to share real-time data on homelessness.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  Chapter 2306, Government Code, is amended by
  adding Subchapter QQ to read as follows:
  SUBCHAPTER QQ. HOMELESS DATA SHARING
         Sec. 2306.1151.  HOMELESS DATA SHARING NETWORK. (a) Using
  available resources, the department in collaboration with the Texas
  Homeless Network shall implement a homeless data sharing network
  through which homeless response systems and data warehouse vendors
  are able to share and assess real-time data on homelessness
  throughout this state.
         (b)  In implementing the homeless data sharing network, the
  department shall collaborate with health benefit plan issuers and
  managed care organizations to:
               (1)  identify individuals experiencing homelessness;
  and
               (2)  connect and refer those individuals to available
  services and resources, including housing navigation assistance,
  for the purpose of improving health outcomes.
         (c)  The department shall ensure that information shared
  through the homeless data sharing network that is confidential
  under state or federal law is not disclosed.
         SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.