Texas House Bill HB1647

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to certain judicial findings required before a court may order a person to receive extended outpatient mental health services.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have a significant impact on Texas mental health law by tightening the criteria necessary for ordered outpatient services. This includes the requirement for clear and convincing evidence that the individual is mentally ill and unable to participate in voluntary treatment effectively. These changes are designed to address concerns regarding involuntary treatment and the rights of those with mental health conditions, tailored to provide greater scrutiny and due process in such instances.

Summary

House Bill 1647 focuses on updating the requirements for judicial findings before a court can mandate a person to receive extended outpatient mental health services. The bill aims to ensure that courts only order such services when certain criteria are thoroughly examined and verified, aiming to protect the rights of individuals with mental health conditions while ensuring community safety. Specifically, it includes stipulations that the judge must find the necessary mental health services are available before issuing an order.

Contention

Discussion around HB1647 may involve various points of contention. Proponents of the bill argue it is a necessary step to ensure that individuals are provided with proper judicial oversight before being subjected to outpatient mental health services. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for this increased scrutiny to delay necessary treatment for individuals in crisis, undermining timely access to mental health care. Stakeholders might debate the balance between protecting individual rights and ensuring that the community does not face the risks associated with untreated severe mental illness.