89R5928 JG-F     By: Garcia of Bexar H.B. No. 1966       A BILL TO BE ENTITLED   AN ACT   relating to a study on the housing needs of youth transitioning out   of foster care or the juvenile justice system.          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:          SECTION 1.  (a) In this section, "council" means the Texas   Interagency Council for the Homeless established under Subchapter   KK, Chapter 2306, Government Code.          (b)  The council shall conduct a study to examine the housing   needs of youth transitioning from foster care or the juvenile   justice system to independent living.          (c)  In conducting the study under this section, the council   shall:                (1)  examine the risk of homelessness for youth   transitioning out of foster care in this state;                (2)  examine the risk of homelessness for youth   transitioning out of the juvenile justice system in this state;                (3)  assess the unique housing needs of youth who:                      (A)  have previously been classified as a dual   status child, as defined by Section 51.02, Family Code; and                      (B)  are part of a disproportionately represented   population in foster care, the juvenile justice system, or both;                (4)  evaluate relevant programs and practices of state   agencies that seek to positively impact the transition of youth out   of foster care or the juvenile justice system; and                (5)  consult with individuals with expertise on issues   faced by youth transitioning out of foster care, the juvenile   justice system, or both.          (d)  Not later than November 1, 2026, the council shall   prepare and submit to the Texas Department of Housing and Community   Affairs and the legislature a written report that:                (1)  summarizes the results of the study conducted   under this section; and                (2)  includes legislative recommendations based on the   results of the study, including recommendations to improve the   transition of youth out of foster care and the juvenile justice   system.          SECTION 2.  This Act expires December 31, 2026.          SECTION 3.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.