Governor asks TABC to proactively address homelessness outside Austin businesses

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Governor Greg Abbott continues his effort to mobilize state agencies to address homelessness by a Nov. 1 deadline, this time calling on the state agency in charge of alcohol sales to enforce restrictions upon Austin retailers.

On Thursday, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) sent letters to Austin businesses reminding them of their duties to uphold public safety.

The letter states that each retailer has a responsibility to maintain their sidewalks and parking lots and to ensure that their entrances and exits are free of obstructions.

In Texas, TABC agents are considered law enforcement officers with statewide jurisdiction.

Chris Porter, a spokesman for the TABC said this reminder was sent out as a direct request from the Governor’s office, but it is not a change to agency policy.

“Addressing the issue of homelessness calls for compassion, leadership, and cooperation from all levels of government. As part of Governor Abbott’s strategy to promote public safety in Austin, we are using this opportunity to remind local alcohol retailers that they’re responsible for the safety of their customers. It’s important to note, we are not changing agency policy.”

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

Bartenders on 6th Street who spoke to KXAN expressed a sense of frustration at the growing presence of those experiencing homelessness within the downtown scene. They said their customers will admit they are nervous of confrontation with transients.

“Over the years, people could walk down the street and feel safe. Now they don’t feel safe anymore,” said Eduardo Hinojosa, a downtown bartender. “It’s kind of been bad for business.”

Hinojosa said he believed that bars, restaurants and other retailers have an inherent responsibility to protect the patrons who choose to frequent the downtown scene.

“The customers inside of our bars, we take care of them. It’s part of our job,” Hinojosa said.

The TABC is only one of several state agencies the governor has asked to proactively address the homeless issue in Austin. He also called to action the Department of Pubic Safety, the Texas Department of Transportation and the Department of Health and Human Services.

TxDOT has spent the week posting fliers at underpasses in Austin. Crews will clear and clean camps in state right-of-ways starting Monday.

KXAN checked and the shelters the state lists where people can go all say they are already at capacity.

Tonight on KXAN News at 9 and 10 p.m., Alex Caprariello will visit with businesses on 6th street in Austin to hear how they plan to regulate homeless activity ahead of the governor’s Nov. 1 deadline.