Texas House Bill HB5342

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/14/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/25/25
• Voted on by House: 5/7/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/20/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to the provision of behavioral health crisis services, including measures to fund and support the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and related services.

Impact

The impact of HB 5342 extends to the enhancement of mental health crisis response infrastructure across Texas. By establishing a dedicated funding mechanism and focusing on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, this bill aims to bolster support systems for individuals in crisis. The expected outcomes include improved accessibility to crisis services, better staffing levels, and expanded capacities for responding to diverse communication channels, such as text messages and online messages. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for effective mental health crisis interventions and aims to address increasing demand for these services.

Summary

House Bill 5342 focuses on the provision and funding of behavioral health crisis services in Texas, particularly through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This bill establishes a trust fund to support the lifeline, enabling the state to accept gifts, grants, and federal funds for its operation. Key provisions include improving personnel and technological infrastructure to ensure effective response to crises and the enhancement of local crisis intervention services. Additionally, the bill requires the Health and Human Services Commission to conduct a study on potential funding mechanisms, including the feasibility of a telecommunication service fee to sustain operations.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 5342 appears to be cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the importance of mental health support and crisis response. Legislators and stakeholders recognize the growing emphasis on mental health issues, especially following the increased awareness stemming from recent public health challenges. However, the bill also faces scrutiny regarding the sustainability of the proposed funding mechanisms and the implications of new fees on telecommunications. This sentiment highlights the balance between the necessity of funding mental health services and the practicality of implementing those funding mechanisms.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the proposed telecommunication service fee, which some legislators and community advocates worry may disproportionately affect lower-income individuals. The discussion around ensuring equitable access to mental health services is central to the debates. Additionally, while there is wide support for improving crisis intervention through the 988 Lifeline, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and whether the proposed trust fund will effectively cover the operational needs and enhancements required. The debate reflects larger discussions about how best to prioritize mental health funding within the state's budget.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 547. Mental Health And Substance Use Services
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