1. (a) The rules established herein for Chapter 7 "Homeless Programs" Subchapter A "General Provisions" applies to all of the Homeless Programs, unless otherwise noted. Additional program specific requirements are contained within each program subchapter.
2. (b) The Homeless Programs administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (the "Department") support the Department's statutorily assigned mission to address the problem of homelessness among Texans.
3. (c) The Department accomplishes this mission by acting as a conduit for state and federal funds for homelessness programs. Ensuring program compliance with the state and federal laws that govern these programs is another important part of the Department's mission. Oversight and program mandates ensure state and federal resources are expended in an efficient and effective manner.
4. (d) Unless otherwise noted herein or required by federal law or regulation, or state statute, all provisions of this chapter apply to any Application received for federal funds and any Contract of state funds on or after September 1, 2018.
5. (e) The Department's Governing Board (the "Board") may waive rules subject to this chapter for good cause to meet the purpose of the Homeless Programs described further in subsection (b) of this section. However, any waiver cannot conflict with the federal or state statutes or regulations governing any of the Homeless Programs. Waivers may not be granted for items that impact federally imposed obligation or Expenditure deadlines governing the ESG Program or state Expenditure deadlines governing HHSP.

Source Note:The provisions of this §7.1 adopted to be effective July 22, 2018, 43 TexReg 4728.