Texas Senate Bill SB1186

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to requirements for mental health assignment certification for municipal police departments and sheriff's departments.

Impact

The implementation of SB1186 is intended to improve the response of law enforcement to mental health crises, potentially mitigating adverse outcomes during police interactions. By ensuring that officers are trained in mental health assignment, the bill aims to foster safer and more effective communication between law enforcement and individuals in mental health distress. This legislative change is part of a broader movement to enhance public safety and ensure that officers are better equipped to handle sensitive situations involving mental health.

Summary

Senate Bill 1186 aims to enhance the mental health preparedness of municipal police and sheriff's departments in Texas. The bill establishes clear requirements for mental health assignment certification, mandating that a certain percentage of officers within these departments must possess this certification. Specifically, it requires that at least one-fourth of officers engaged in traffic or highway patrol and those who are primary responders to calls for assistance from the public be certified. Additionally, it mandates that at least one-fourth of the on-duty officers during a shift also obtain this certification.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance mental health training among police forces, it is likely to attract various opinions regarding its feasibility and the resources required for proper implementation. Some stakeholders may argue that while the intention is commendable, the training and certification processes require sufficient funding and staffing within local law enforcement agencies, which may pose challenges. Others may express concerns regarding the adequacy of existing mental health services to support the expectations set forth by the bill, highlighting a potential gap between training and the resources available in the community.