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HB 2748

Relating to a pilot program to disburse payments to residential landlords when tenants terminate leases following family violence, certain sex offenses, or stalking.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Vikki Goodwin

Texas pilot program compensates landlords when tenants terminate leases due to family violence, sex offenses, or stalking, enabling victim safety without financial penalty.

Referred to Trade, Workforce & Economic Development
#crimes--againstpersons--sexual(i0171) #family--familyviolence(i0353) #housing&communityaffairs #texasdepartmentof(v0008) #propertyinterests--landlord&tenant(i0610) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003)
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Bill Summary · HB 2748

Legislative bill overview

HB 2748 establishes a pilot program in Texas that would provide financial payments to residential landlords when tenants break their leases due to family violence, certain sex offenses, or stalking. The program aims to compensate landlords for lost rental income while enabling tenants in these situations to safely exit their living arrangements without financial penalties.

Why is this important

Domestic violence and stalking victims often face a critical barrier to safety: breaking a lease without penalty can result in significant financial liability. This bill attempts to remove that barrier by shifting some financial burden from vulnerable tenants to the state through a pilot program, potentially enabling faster escapes from dangerous situations. The approach also acknowledges landlords' legitimate business losses, creating a potential solution that serves both parties.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: The bill's fiscal impact depends entirely on the pilot's scope, participant numbers, and payment amounts—details not specified in the summary. Concerns about state budget allocation and whether funds are sufficient to meet demand.
  • Verification and fraud prevention: Establishing credible verification that a lease termination qualifies under family violence, sex offenses, or stalking without creating burdensome documentation requirements for victims or opening the door to fraudulent claims.
  • Landlord participation rates: Whether landlords will voluntarily participate in the pilot program if payments don't fully cover lost rent, utilities, or turnover costs, limiting the program's effectiveness.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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