TX
Texas Senate Bill SB698

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB698

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Office of Youth Health and Safety.

Impact

If enacted, SB698 could lead to a substantial reform in how Texas handles juvenile cases by prioritizing mental health and rehabilitation over incarceration. The bill proposes the creation of a governing board composed of diverse stakeholders including legal professionals, educators, and advocates for youth mental health and welfare. This board will be crucial in shaping policies and strategies aimed at reducing reliance on secure juvenile correctional facilities and enhancing evidence-based local interventions.

Summary

SB698 aims to establish the Office of Youth Health and Safety in Texas, designed to promote trauma-responsive and culturally informed services for children involved in the juvenile justice system. This new office will seek to provide support for youths transitioning into adulthood and striving to become constructive members of their communities. It emphasizes holistic care and community-based solutions, which marks a significant shift from more punitive approaches previously common in the juvenile justice system.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise regarding the funding and resources necessary to implement the proposed changes effectively. Critics could express concern over the practicalities of transitioning from a more traditional, secure confinement model of juvenile justice toward community-based interventions. Additionally, there may be debates about balancing the needs of the community with the rights and rehabilitation of youths who have committed delinquent acts, especially concerning their integration into society and potential challenges related to public safety.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 523. Health And Human Services Commission
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB661

Same As Relating to the creation of the Office of Youth Health and Safety.

TX HB2489

Very Similar Relating to the creation of the Office of Youth Health and Safety.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4356

Relating to the dissolution of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the creation of the Office of Youth Safety and Rehabilitation.

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 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 SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB75

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB85

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB37

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB87

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.