Bill Caption

Relating to the establishment by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs of colonia self-help centers in certain counties and to the representation of those counties on the Colonia Resident Advisory Committee.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

HB 2893 would establish a Colonia self help center in Nueces county.

The statutory purpose of colonia self help centers is to "assist individuals and families of low income and very low income to finance, refinance, construct, improve, or maintain a safe, suitable home in the colonias' designated service area or in another area the department has determined is suitable." 

Colonia self help centers are operated by local nonprofit organizations or local community action agencies contracted by the state.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action is opposed to HB 2893 on the principle of limited government. Expanding public assistance programs is inconsistent with limited government and is outside of the core function of state government. Furthermore, the nonprofits and action agencies that run these self help centers can and should raise private funds for the endeavor.