Texas House Bill HB2707

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the expansion of the community mental health grant program to include services to and treatment of individuals with substance use disorders.

Impact

Should HB 2707 be enacted, it would modify existing Texas government statutes by expanding the financial support available for community mental health programs. Specifically, it would affect Section 531.0999 of the Government Code, which outlines the framework for grant allocation. This change would enable local health authorities to access increased resources for treating substance use disorders, crucial in regions where such services are in short supply. The bill stipulates differing funding leverage requirements based on county populations, ensuring that smaller communities also benefit from state support.

Summary

House Bill 2707 seeks to enhance the community mental health grant program by including specific provisions for the treatment and services provided to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. This amendment aims to address the needs of a demographic often overlooked in mental health initiatives, thereby broadening the scope of care covered under the program. The bill emphasizes the establishment of a matching grant program that assists community-based programs in delivering essential mental health and substance abuse services across Texas, reflecting a significant legislative effort to combat substance use issues.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB 2707 have likely involved debates about funding priorities and the allocation of resources to mental health versus other healthcare services. Notably, the bill's expansion of the grant program to include substance use treatment may raise concerns about how funds will be sourced and utilized. Advocates argue that this integration is necessary to provide holistic care, while critics may express worries about insufficient oversight or the potential for mismanagement of funds directed towards combating substance use disorders. The necessity of community support letters to accompany grant applications is a mechanism introduced in the bill aimed at fostering collaboration between local authorities, which could be a point of contention regarding administrative burden versus community engagement.