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.
Impact
The establishment of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute is expected to significantly influence state laws related to mental health funding and research. By allocating substantial resources towards research into mental health and human brain diseases, the bill could pave the way for innovative treatments and preventive measures that are anchored in robust scientific inquiry. The funds will be directed towards grants for educational institutions and advanced medical research facilities, potentially fostering collaborations that could build stronger mental health services throughout Texas.
Summary
HJR135 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas along with the Mental Health and Brain Institute Research Fund. This initiative aims to dedicate a significant amount of $3 billion from the state's general revenue for the progression of medical research related to mental health and human brain disorders. The bill signifies a historic move to enhance Texas's position in leading scientific research focused on mental health issues, subsequently resulting in extensive improvements in mental health policies across the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HJR135 appears largely positive, with numerous members of the committee, including advocates and healthcare professionals, testifying in support of the measure. The establishment of a dedicated research institute aligns with growing public awareness of mental health issues and the need for effective solutions. However, the financing aspect of the bill has drawn attention given the substantial amount proposed, which raises questions about potential budget reallocations and financial implications in other areas of state funding.
Contention
While broadly supported, there are notable concerns voiced during discussions regarding HJR135. Critics express trepidation about the implications of such a large financial commitment to a single initiative, particularly in a context where various pressing state issues vie for funding. Furthermore, the bill's long-term sustainability and operational efficiency following the initial funding transfer are concerns that some legislators have discussed. Ensuring accountability and effectiveness in applying these funds remains a critical point of contention for stakeholders.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas and the Mental Health and Brain Institute Research Fund to provide funding for scientific research of mental health issues and human brain diseases and disorders.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders in this state, and transferring state general revenue to that fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and related disorders in this state, and transferring to that fund $3 billion from state general revenue.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders in this state, and transferring to that fund $3 billion from state general revenue.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of dementia and related disorders in this state, and transferring to that fund $3 billion from state general revenue.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the dedication of certain sales and use tax revenue to the Texas mental and behavioral health research fund established to fund research, treatment, and access to services in this state for behavioral health, mental health, and substance use and addiction issues.
Relating to measures to enhance and maintain the quality of state universities, including funding and incentives to support emerging public research universities, to the abolition of the higher education fund, to the institutional groupings under the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's accountability system, to the independent status of Lamar Institute of Technology, to research conducted by public universities and other state entities, and to the authorization of revenue bonds for certain institutions of higher education.