Austin Lawmakers Consider Bill Affecting Homeless Services Near Schools
Austin, TX – Lawmakers are deliberating on Senate Bill 2623, a proposed legislation that could heavily impact where facilities providing homeless services can operate in relation to public schools. If passed, the bill would prohibit homeless centers and organizations offering navigation services—critical support for those experiencing homelessness—within a 1,500-foot radius of public school property lines.
Proponents argue that placing such services, particularly those focused on drug and behavioral rehabilitation, near schools poses risks to children. The bill aims to enhance safety and create a more stable environment for students.
However, critics of the legislation, such as Janet Collinsworth, CEO of the Agape Resource and Assistance Center in Plano, strongly oppose the measure. The center, located directly across from Mendenhall Elementary, provides essential services to women and children, including mental health support and housing assistance. Collinsworth insists that there is no safety threat posed by their operations, citing rigorous screening processes for clients and a commitment to maintaining a supportive atmosphere for survivors of abuse.
“The women we serve need to be near schools, and this bill could force many vital organizations like ours to shut down,” Collinsworth stated, highlighting the potential adverse effects on vulnerable populations if the bill passes.
A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday in Austin, where community members are encouraged to voice their opinions on the bill. Advocates are urging the public to comprehend the legislation’s implications and engage with local lawmakers to highlight the essential role of homeless services in supporting at-risk individuals. The discussion continues as the bill moves through the legislative process, raising concerns about its impact on communities in need.
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