Texas Senate Bill SB719

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/6/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/25

Caption

Relating to the collection of information on available beds at inpatient mental health facilities providing acute psychiatric treatment.

Impact

Should SB719 become law, it is expected to enhance the transparency and accessibility of mental health resources across Texas. By conducting a comprehensive study of the availability of psychiatric beds, the legislation aims to inform future decisions regarding mental healthcare provisioning. The study will assess the need for additional facilities and resources, potentially leading to improved mental health services and a strategic approach to addressing the state's mental health challenges, especially among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

Summary

Senate Bill 719 (SB719) focuses on improving the collection and dissemination of data regarding available beds in inpatient mental health facilities that offer acute psychiatric treatment. The bill mandates hospitals providing mental health or chemical dependency services to submit detailed financial and utilization data to the Health and Human Services Department. This data includes patient demographics, admissions, discharges, diagnoses, charges, and specific details about psychiatric bed availability categorized as either online or offline beds.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB719 appears supportive, particularly among mental health advocates and professionals. Proponents argue that the bill’s focus on data collection is crucial for understanding and responding to mental health needs in Texas, which have heightened in recent years. While there is broad support for the intent of the bill, concerns may arise regarding the implementation processes and the capacity of facilities to report the required data accurately.

Contention

A notable point of contention may revolve around the adequacy of resources allocated for the implementation of SB719, particularly the study it calls for regarding bed availability and mental health service needs. Critics may question whether existing facilities have the resources to fulfill the documentation requirements without detracting from patient care. Moreover, there could be debates concerning data privacy and the ethical implications of extensive data collection from patients in mental health settings.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Code Of Criminal Procedure

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

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 841. Civil Commitment Of Sexually Violent Predators
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 311. Powers And Duties Of Hospitals
  • Section: 0335
  • Section: 0335
  • Section: 0335

• Chapter 573. Emergency Detention
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

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