Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB21

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to authorizing patients with certain terminal illnesses to access certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices that are in clinical trials.

Impact

If enacted, HB21 will impact state laws related to public education funding and mental health services. It mandates that a portion of school funding be specifically used for mental health services and support programs. This could lead to increased availability of counselors, mental health educators, and community support programs within schools, enhancing the overall educational environment. The bill reflects a growing recognition of the critical role mental health plays in student success and seeks to position schools as proactive institutions in addressing these needs.

Summary

House Bill 21, aimed at enhancing mental health services in educational institutions, proposes significant changes to the funding structures for schools. The bill seeks to allocate additional resources for mental health programs within K-12 education, reinforcing the importance of supporting student well-being as an integral part of the educational experience. By establishing dedicated funding for mental health initiatives, HB21 aims to create a more supportive environment for students facing challenges that affect their learning and overall development.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB21 has been largely positive among educators and mental health advocates, who view it as a crucial step towards addressing mental health issues in schools. Proponents argue that by formally integrating mental health services into education funding, schools can better respond to the increasing pressures and challenges faced by students today. However, some legislators express concerns about the effective implementation of the bill and whether the additional funding will reach the intended programs without bureaucratic delays or mismanagement.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB21 include debates over how much funding should be allocated for mental health services and how to ensure equitable distribution across different school districts. Critics argue that while the initiative is beneficial, there may not be adequate oversight to guarantee that resources are used efficiently. Additionally, some members of the legislature question whether the focus should solely be on mental health or if broader educational reforms should also be considered.

Companion Bills

TX SB694

Similar Relating to authorizing patients with certain terminal illnesses to access certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices that are in clinical trials.

Previously Filed As

TX SB773

Relating to access to certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices used in clinical trials by patients with severe chronic diseases.

TX HB638

Relating to access to certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices used in clinical trials by patients with severe chronic diseases.

TX HB4059

Relating to the right to try cutting-edge treatments for patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses.

TX HB4348

Relating to the right to try cutting-edge treatments for patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses.

TX SB1580

Relating to the right to try cutting-edge treatments for patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses.

TX HB343

Relating to the prescriptive authority of certain psychologists; authorizing a fee.

TX SB121

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.

TX SB2212

Relating to the disclosure by a pharmacy to a patient of certain price information for a drug or biological product.

TX HB446

Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.

TX SB332

Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.