Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB62

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the transportation of certain mental health patients.

Impact

The bill aims to improve the mental health care system's efficiency in high-population areas, specifically along the Texas-Mexico border. By establishing clear guidelines for patient transport, it seeks to ensure that individuals receive timely care in mental health facilities, potentially decreasing instances of untreated mental health crises. Moreover, it commands the commissioners' courts in affected counties to maintain a list of qualified transportation service providers, fostering a structured approach to such transportation needs and ensuring accountability.

Summary

House Bill 62 addresses the transportation of certain mental health patients, particularly focusing on counties located on the Texas-Mexico border with populations of 500,000 or more. The bill establishes new procedures for judges or magistrates to authorize the transport of apprehended individuals to mental health facilities. It outlines a prioritization system for who may conduct the transportation, emphasizing non-remunerated relatives or responsible persons, followed by facility administrators, representatives from local mental health authorities, and certified special officers, with the sheriff or on-duty peace officers as a last resort if no other persons are available.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill may raise concerns around the implications for individual rights and the quality of care. Critics may worry that hastening the transportation process could overlook important aspects of individual welfare during transit or it may lead to reliance on a limited pool of providers. Furthermore, opponents could argue about the adequacy of the training and standards required for those listed as qualified transportation service providers, which might vary, affecting the safety and wellbeing of transported individuals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4009

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.

TX HB2506

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.

TX HB3504

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.

TX HB5088

Relating to procedures regarding certain persons who are or may be persons with a mental illness or intellectual disability.

TX SB2479

Relating to procedures regarding certain persons who are or may be persons with a mental illness or intellectual disability.

TX HB4085

Relating to the payment by the state or a county of costs for certain mental health hearings or proceedings.

TX SB295

Relating to the payment by the state or a county of costs for certain mental health hearings or proceedings.

TX HB15

Relating to the creation of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas.

TX SB1624

Relating to guardianships and services for incapacitated persons and to the emergency detention of certain persons with mental illness.

TX SB1433

Relating to procedures for the emergency detention of certain persons with mental illness.

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