Texas House Bill HB2897

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the mental health first aid program training and reporting.

Impact

By implementing HB2897, the state will likely see a significant increase in the number of personnel trained in mental health first aid, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for mental health interventions in schools and communities. The enhanced reporting structure is expected to provide lawmakers with a clearer picture of program effectiveness and reach, enabling better allocation of resources and potential adjustments to training programs as necessary.

Summary

House Bill 2897 focuses on enhancing mental health first aid programs across Texas by establishing reporting requirements for local mental health authorities. It mandates that these authorities submit annual reports detailing the number of trained mental health first aid trainers and program participants, including school employees and individuals from the community. This initiative aims to bolster mental health literacy by ensuring more individuals are equipped to address mental health crises effectively, particularly in educational settings.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance mental health education and response capacity, there may be debates surrounding its funding and resource allocation. Concerns could arise regarding whether local mental health authorities have adequate support to implement the training program comprehensively, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, stakeholders may discuss the implications of requiring teachers and community members to handle mental health issues without sufficient professional mental health expertise.