Texas House Bill HCR81

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Requesting the lieutenant governor and speaker to create a joint interim committee to study suicide prevention in Texas.

Impact

The bill proposes the creation of a joint interim committee, directed by the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house, to study suicide prevention in Texas. This committee would be tasked with examining existing strategies and identifying new approaches to effectively support individuals at risk of suicide. The findings and recommendations are required to be presented to the 87th Texas Legislature before its next session, outlining potential legislative actions to enhance mental health services and preventive measures.

Summary

HCR81 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Texas legislature, which seeks to address the rising rates of suicide in the state. The resolution highlights the alarming increase in suicide rates from 1999 to 2016 and recognizes suicide as a significant public health issue, ranking as the 10th leading cause of death in the nation. With nearly 45,000 deaths attributed to suicide in 2016 alone, the resolution underscores the urgent need for effective suicide prevention strategies.

Contention

While HCR81 does not appear to have significant public opposition, the discussion surrounding mental health initiatives often touches upon concerns such as funding for mental health services and the stigma associated with mental health conditions. Local advocacy groups and mental health professionals may participate in the process to ensure comprehensive strategies are developed. The resolution aims to create a framework that encourages cooperation between various stakeholders in the health sector to improve overall mental health outcomes in the state.