Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2622

Filed
2/10/25  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the transport of female patients to a mental health facility or residential care facility.

Impact

If enacted, HB2622 is set to amend existing sections of the Code of Criminal Procedure and Health and Safety Code. The bill's provisions will establish clearer guidelines for transporting female patients, potentially influencing how mental health facilities and transport services operate. The implementation of body cameras and recording devices may lead to improved accountability among transport personnel, thereby increasing the safety of patients during these operations.

Summary

House Bill 2622 proposes updating regulations surrounding the transport of female patients to mental health or residential care facilities. The bill aims to reinforce safety by ensuring that a female patient is accompanied by a female attendant during transport unless specific conditions are met, such as the presence of a male attendant wearing an activated body camera or the use of vehicles equipped with recording devices. This amendment seeks to enhance the protection and dignity of female patients in vulnerable situations.

Sentiment

Discussion around HB2622 has highlighted a commitment to patient safety and respect for female patients during transport. However, the effectiveness of the proposed measures and the additional burden they may place on transport services have sparked varied opinions. Supporters argue that these safety protocols are necessary to protect vulnerable patients, while some critics express concerns about the practicality and potential costs associated with implementing these requirements.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB2622 include the adequacy of the safety measures proposed and their potential effects on operational efficiency in transport services. While the intention behind the bill is widely accepted as noble, debate continues on whether the proposed conditions are sufficient and feasible. Critics have raised questions about whether mandated body cameras and recording devices could create legal or logistical impediments that might deter facilities from complying with the new regulations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 574. Court-ordered Mental Health Services
    • Section: 045
    • Section: 045
    • Section: 045

Code Of Criminal Procedure

  • Chapter 46. Miscellaneous Provisions Relating To Mental Illness And Intellectual Disability
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.