Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB562

Filed

12/12/16

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a committee formed to adopt a plan to deal with mental illness in the criminal justice system.

Impact

The bill requires local mental health authorities to submit their plans to the Department of State Health Services. Failure to do so could result in a loss of state funding for mental and behavioral health services for the given fiscal biennium. This requirement places a significant focus on local initiatives to address mental health issues, promoting a collaborative approach among various stakeholders in the community to develop tailored solutions to reduce the incarceration of individuals with mental health challenges.

Summary

House Bill 562 addresses the establishment of local mental health committees within various regions to develop actionable plans to address mental health issues within the criminal justice system. Specifically, the bill mandates that each local mental health authority form a committee comprising representatives from relevant local organizations, including the sheriff's department, district attorney's office, public and private hospitals, and various community services. These committees are tasked with assessing the mental health needs of county jail inmates and formulating strategies to improve their conditions and outcomes.

Contention

While the bill has formal backing, it raises several points of discussion among stakeholders. Proponents might argue that it provides a structured and localized approach to tackling mental health within the criminal justice system, emphasizing the importance of community-based solutions. However, there may be concerns about the adequacy of resources available to these local authorities to address the proposed changes effectively and whether the timelines set forth in the bill are realistic for developing comprehensive plans. Moreover, the potential implications for resource allocation are also a focal point of contention.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 HB727

Relating to the applicability of the death penalty to a capital offense committed by a person with severe mental illness.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB16

Relating to the adjudication and disposition of cases involving delinquent conduct, certain juvenile court proceedings, and planning and funding for services for children in the juvenile justice system.

TX HB2059

Relating to mental health first aid training provided by local mental health authorities and local behavioral health authorities.

TX HB2627

TX HB2044

Relating to depression screenings for certain women in county jail or in the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX SB444

Relating to depression screenings for certain women in county jail or in the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

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