Texas Senate Bill SB1883

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the administration of housing funds set aside for persons with disabilities through the homebuyer assistance program.

Impact

The bill mandates the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to establish a preapproval process allowing applicants to verify their eligibility for housing funds before the actual disbursement occurs. This change is meant to provide potential homebuyers with a fair opportunity, giving them a timeframe of at least 90 days to find a suitable home after being approved for funds, which is expected to positively affect their ability to secure appropriate housing.

Summary

SB1883 aims to enhance the administration of housing funds specifically allocated for persons with disabilities through the homebuyer assistance program in Texas. The bill proposes amendments to Section 2306.111 of the Government Code, emphasizing a more accessible process for individuals with disabilities seeking such housing assistance. One key aspect is that it removes the requirement for applicants to enter into a purchase contract before applying for aid, thereby reducing barriers to access.

Contention

While the bill appears to be an improvement in facilitating access to housing funds for individuals with disabilities, it may also raise discussions among stakeholders about the sufficiency of allocated resources and whether the system can handle the increase in applicants prompted by these more accessible provisions. Some may express concerns over whether these changes can effectively address the actual housing needs of persons with disabilities in light of existing housing market dynamics.