Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1302

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Texas Mental Health Research Institute; authorizing the issuance of bonds.

Impact

The creation of the Texas Mental Health Research Institute will directly influence state laws by empowering the institute to make grants to health-related educational institutions, thereby increasing research initiatives focusing on mental health and substance use disorders. The legislation outlines specific priorities for grant funding, emphasizing collaborative approaches to research and aligning projects with the statewide behavioral health strategic plan. This not only aims to enhance the quality of research conducted but also ensures that such projects adequately meet the current needs of the state's residents. Furthermore, the institute will be responsible for overseeing grant compliance and evaluating the effectiveness of funded projects, contributing to a more accountable use of state resources.

Summary

House Bill 1302 establishes the Texas Mental Health Research Institute aimed at enhancing mental health and substance use disorder research across various university systems in Texas. The bill includes provisions for the issuance of bonds to fund the institute’s activities and supports the development of a comprehensive statewide research plan. This initiative is intended to foster collaboration among universities to advance mental health research and improve access to effective treatment options for residents of Texas. Through this institute, the state seeks to attract experts and enhance the research capabilities within its institutions of higher education.

Contention

There may be some contention regarding the funding mechanisms set forth in HB 1302, particularly the authorization for the issuance of general obligation bonds. This could prompt debates focused on fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of mental health initiatives within the state budget. Critics may voice concerns about the long-term implications of bonding for state funding as well as the potential for mismanagement of funds if adequate oversight mechanisms are not in place. Additionally, ensuring that the appointed members of the oversight committee possess the necessary qualifications and expertise could remain a point of discussion among stakeholders interested in maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the institute.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB15

Relating to the creation of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas.

TX HB3988

Relating to the creation of the Texas Advanced Research Institute.

TX SB1974

Relating to the creation of the Texas Advanced Research Institute.

TX HJR135

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas and establishing the Mental Health and Brain Institute Research Fund for the purposes of scientific research of all forms of mental health and human brain disease and disorders.

TX HB700

Relating to creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange; authorizing an assessment.

TX HB2554

Relating to creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange; authorizing an assessment.

TX HB3447

Relating to the establishment and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium.

TX SB344

Relating to the creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange and premium assistance and cost-sharing reduction programs; authorizing a fee.

TX SB2369

Relating to the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

Similar Bills

TX HB185

Relating to the creation of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas.

TX HB15

Relating to the creation of the Texas brain university research initiative.

TX HB15

Relating to the creation of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas.

TX HB10

Relating to the creation of the Texas Mental and Behavioral Health Research Institute.

TX HB951

Relating to the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.

TX SB5

Relating to the creation of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.

TX SB149

Relating to the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.

TX SB998

Relating to the creation of the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.