Texas Senate Bill SB1891

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the delivery of mental health services and supports under a system of care framework to minors who have or are at risk of developing a serious emotional disturbance or who are at risk of being removed from the minor's home.

Impact

By integrating various state services and promoting a cohesive system of care, SB1891 intends to mitigate the challenges that minors face in accessing mental health support. It is designed to ensure that services are tailored to the needs of each minor, helping to prevent more acute interventions such as hospitalization. The emphasis on community-based services reflects a broader shift towards integrating mental health care into the community, potentially alleviating the burden on state resources while also reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. This bill could lead to significant changes in how mental health support is structured and delivered to vulnerable youth.

Summary

SB1891 aims to enhance the delivery of mental health services under a system of care framework specifically for minors who are either at risk of developing a serious emotional disturbance or who may be removed from their homes due to mental health issues. The bill emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach involving multiple state agencies, including health services, juvenile justice, and education authorities. This proposed framework focuses on providing a comprehensive and coordinated system of care that is family-driven and culturally competent, aiming to improve access to necessary services for affected minors and their families.

Contention

While the goals of SB1891 are largely seen as positive by stakeholders who advocate for mental health initiatives, there may be contention around the funding and operational logistics involved in establishing this system of care framework. Questions may arise regarding who will be responsible for implementing these changes and ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to achieve the bill's objectives. Additionally, there are concerns about the effectiveness of such a system in meeting the unique and diverse needs of minors across different regions within Texas. Stakeholders may demand accountability and transparency in how the system will operate and measure success.