Relating to the creation and operation of a mental health services district by the Midland County Hospital District of Midland County, Texas, and the Ector County Hospital District.
Impact
The establishment of this mental health services district is expected to significantly impact state laws governing public health and local governance. It allows the involved hospital districts to manage, operate, and fund mental health services without imposing additional taxes or incurring debts through bonds. Instead, the districts are to provide financial support as stipulated in contracts, ensuring fiscal responsibility while expanding access to much-needed mental health services.
Summary
House Bill 492 authorizes the creation and operation of a mental health services district specifically for the Midland County and Ector County Hospital Districts in Texas. The legislation is an initiative aimed at addressing the pressing need for improved mental health services in the Permian Basin region, building on previous funding provided for a behavioral health hospital through earlier legislation. Under the bill, the newly formed district will coordinate and manage mental health services, thereby enhancing support for residents requiring such services.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 492 has been generally positive, with strong support from various stakeholders, including local leaders and mental health advocates. Proponents emphasize the necessity of tailored mental health services to address specific community needs, particularly in light of recognized gaps in care. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial management of the district and the potential over-reliance on a single model for mental health service delivery, prompting some discussion around the representation within the board that governs the district.
Contention
One notable point of contention raised during discussions revolves around the governance structure of the mental health services district. While the bill stipulates that each hospital district appoints three directors to the governing board, questions remain about ensuring adequate representation of community interests. Additionally, stakeholders have raised concerns about the sustainability of funding and the effective management of resources allocated for mental health services, as the district cannot impose additional taxes or issue bonds.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 579. Mental Health Services Districts Created By Certain Hospital Districts
Section: New Section
Section: 001
Section: 002
Section: 003
Section: 051
Section: 052
Section: 053
Section: 054
Section: 055
Section: 101
Section: 102
Section: 103
Section: 104
Section: 151
Section: 152
Section: 153
Section: 154
Section: 201
Section: 202
Section: 203
Section: 204
Section: 205
Section: 206
Section: 207
Section: 208
Section: 209
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Special District Local Laws Code
Chapter 1024. Ector County Hospital District
Section: 118
Section: 118
Section: 118
Section: 118
Section: 118
Chapter 1061. Midland County Hospital District Ofmidland County, Texas
Relating to the Dallam-Hartley Counties Hospital District, the Ector County Hospital District, and the Seminole Hospital District of Gaines County, Texas.
Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.
Relating to the dissolution of the Ballinger Memorial Hospital District and the North Runnels County Hospital District and the creation of the Runnels County Hospital District; granting the authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting the power of eminent domain.
Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.
Establishes educational service agencies for procuring custodial and food services in schools and ensures certain employee rights for affected employees.
Establishes educational service agencies for procuring custodial and food services in schools and ensures certain employee rights for affected employees.
Establishes educational service agencies for procuring custodial and food services in schools and ensures certain employee rights for affected employees.