Relating to the implementation of a statewide homeless data sharing network to share real-time data on homelessness.

HB 636 creates a statewide homeless data sharing network to connect homeless response systems, health insurers, and service providers through real-time data sharing. The bill requires the Texas Health and Human Services Department, in collaboration with the Texas Homeless Network, to implement this system by September 1, 2025, enabling real-time tracking of homelessness and connecting individuals experiencing homelessness to housing navigation assistance and health services. It mandates confidentiality for protected health information under state or federal law and directs collaboration with health benefit plan issuers to identify and refer homeless individuals to available resources. This bill directly affects homeless individuals, shelters, housing navigators, health insurers, and data vendors participating in the network.