Texas SB1777 prohibits payments for referrals to unlicensed group homes and mandates background checks for employees.

Texas SB1777 amends the Health and Safety Code to regulate certain group homes. It prohibits health care providers from accepting payments for referring potential residents to unlicensed group homes. A violation is a Class B misdemeanor. The bill also mandates that group home owners or operators obtain criminal history records for applicants and employees, and prohibits hiring or continuing employment of individuals with certain criminal convictions. Exemptions include licensed facilities and certain institutions. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas SB1777 prohibits payments for referrals to unlicensed group homes and mandates background checks for employees.

Texas SB1777 amends the Health and Safety Code to regulate certain group homes. It prohibits health care providers from accepting payments for referring potential residents to unlicensed group homes. A violation is a Class B misdemeanor. The bill also mandates that group home owners or operators obtain criminal history records for applicants and employees, and prohibits hiring or continuing employment of individuals with certain criminal convictions. Exemptions include licensed facilities and certain institutions. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025.