Texas lawmakers target unlicensed assisted living homes

Texas lawmakers are introducing new legislation to address unlicensed assisted living homes and regulate senior housing consultants. This follows a WFAA investigation that revealed unsafe conditions in these facilities. House Bill 2510, filed by State Rep. Chris Turner, would make operating an unlicensed home a criminal offense, with penalties including jail time. State Sen. Borris Miles has proposed Senate Bill 1137, which would prohibit consultants from referring clients to unlicensed homes without disclosing complaints. Additional bills aim to enhance oversight of group homes. Senate Bill 1136 would allow fire marshals to investigate reports of abuse, while Senate Bill 1138 would require emergency services to establish response protocols for these facilities.