Relating to the transport of a mental health patient who is not a resident of this state.
Impact
The bill's enactment will likely lead to more streamlined processes for handling nonresident mental health patients within Texas. By creating a clear framework for reciprocal agreements, it offers a structured approach for cooperation between states. This legislative move aims to provide mental health facilities with guidelines that facilitate the transfer of patients, enabling Texas to care for patients more effectively while respecting their rights to return to their home states for continued care. Additionally, the state is required to bear the expenses of such returns unless a cost-sharing agreement is established, which could impact state resources used for mental health services.
Summary
House Bill 3427 addresses the transport of mental health patients who are not residents of Texas. The bill establishes a legal framework for the return of such patients to their home states by amending provisions in the Health and Safety Code. One significant aspect of the bill is the introduction of Section 571.0081, which mandates the development of reciprocal agreements between Texas and other states to facilitate this process. It aims to ensure that patients can be efficiently and safely returned to their state of residence, fostering collaboration among states in managing mental health care services.
Contention
One point of contention surrounding HB 3427 centers on the responsibilities and costs involved in the transportation of patients. Critics may voice concerns regarding the potential financial implications for Texas, particularly in situations where the cost of returning patients becomes burdensome and lacks clear guidelines for interstate cooperation. Questions may arise over the appropriateness of the state's role and financial responsibility in these transports, especially if states engage in different capacities concerning mental health funding and services. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the bill will depend on how well the reciprocal agreements are negotiated and implemented.
Relating to procedures applicable to the emergency detention of a person with mental illness at a mental health facility, including the detention, transportation, and transfer of the person and to certain best practices for courts with jurisdiction over emergency mental health matters.
Relating to an application for emergency detention, procedures regarding court-ordered mental health services, and certain rights of patients admitted to private mental hospitals and certain other mental health facilities.
Relating to advance directives and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of patients, including a review of those directives and decisions.
Relating to advance directives and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of patients, including a review of those directives and decisions.
Relating to advance directives, do-not-resuscitate orders, and health care treatment decisions made by or on behalf of certain patients, including a review of directives and decisions.
Relating to notice of rights provided to a patient receiving inpatient mental health, chemical dependency, or comprehensive medical rehabilitation services at certain facilities.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Mental Health Care Enterprise Fund and the granting of license reciprocity to certain mental health professionals.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Mental Health Care Enterprise Fund and the granting of license reciprocity to certain mental health professionals.
Relating to illegal entry into this state from Mexico by a person who is not a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States; creating criminal offenses.