87R2472 NC-F
 
  By: Rodriguez H.B. No. 2405
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to the municipal regulation of housing for homeless
  individuals provided by a religious organization.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  Chapter 229, Local Government Code, is amended
  by adding Subchapter C to read as follows:
  SUBCHAPTER C.  REGULATION OF HOUSING PROVIDED BY RELIGIOUS
  ORGANIZATIONS
         Sec. 229.071.  DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:
               (1)  "Homeless individual" includes any individual in
  need of housing assistance.
               (2)  "Religious organization" has the meaning assigned
  by Section 464.051, Health and Safety Code.
         Sec. 229.072.  CERTAIN ZONING OR LAND USE REGULATIONS
  PROHIBITED. A municipal zoning or land use ordinance may not
  prohibit a religious organization from:
               (1)  using the religious organization's facility as
  housing for homeless individuals; or
               (2)  having housing units on the organization's
  property for homeless individuals.
         Sec. 229.073.  OTHER REGULATIONS PERMITTED. (a)  A
  municipality may adopt or enforce an ordinance that imposes
  reasonable health and safety regulations on housing for homeless
  individuals provided on a religious organization's property.
         (b)  A municipality may require a religious organization
  that provides housing for homeless individuals on the
  organization's property to provide:
               (1)  electricity and heat for each housing unit; and
               (2)  at least one kitchen and bathroom on the property
  that may be used by the individuals.
         (c)  For purposes of this section, "housing" does not include
  temporary housing provided during a life-threatening emergency or
  for natural disaster relief.
         SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.