Texas Senate Bill SB32

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/9/09
• Voted on by Senate: 3/19/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/22/09

Caption

Relating to the detention and transportation of a person with a mental illness.

Impact

The implementation of SB32 is expected to impact law enforcement practices significantly, as it mandates that peace officers adhere to a clearly defined protocol when dealing with individuals exhibiting symptoms of mental illness. Under the new provisions, peace officers are required to transport such individuals directly to designated mental health facilities, which could lead to a reduction in the incarceration of people with mental health issues. Additionally, the bill restricts the conditions under which individuals can be held in detention facilities, ensuring that their well-being is prioritized. This legislative approach not only enhances the standards of care but also aims to alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system.

Summary

SB32 addresses the detention and transportation of individuals with mental illnesses in Texas, aiming to amend existing provisions in the Health and Safety Code. The bill outlines specific protocols that law enforcement must follow when taking a person into custody under these circumstances. Importantly, the bill requires that individuals be transported to appropriate mental health facilities rather than traditional jails, thereby emphasizing the need for mental health care over punitive confinement. This change reflects a growing understanding of the critical importance of mental health treatment and the implications of treating mental health crises with law enforcement interventions.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive step toward addressing mental health concerns within law enforcement practices, it is not without contention. Some stakeholders may be concerned about the adequacy of resources and facilities to accommodate the expected increase in patients requiring mental health care. Furthermore, there may be debates regarding the logistics and practical implementation of the bill, including how law enforcement agencies will be trained to handle such situations effectively. Overall, while the intent behind SB32 is to improve conditions for individuals facing mental health crises, ensuring the necessary infrastructure and training is critical for its success.