The bill establishes the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas, which will be incorporated into Chapter 157 of Subtitle H, Title 3 of the Education Code. The institute's primary objectives are to promote innovation in mental health and brain research, enhance research capabilities, and foster collaboration among educational institutions and other entities. It will have the authority to award grants for research initiatives focused on mental health issues and brain-related diseases, supported by an oversight committee and a peer review committee. The bill outlines the institute's governance structure, including the hiring of a chief executive officer and a chief compliance officer, and mandates annual public reporting on its activities and financial audits.

Additionally, the bill introduces stringent oversight and compliance mechanisms for grant awards, requiring detailed reporting from grant applicants and establishing a tracking system for compliance with reporting requirements. It emphasizes conflict-of-interest protocols, mandating recusal for members or employees with conflicts and outlining criteria for such determinations. The oversight committee will consist of nine members appointed by state leaders, ensuring diversity and accountability. The bill also sets guidelines for grant applications, including prioritization of proposals that align with state priorities and economic benefits, while limiting total grant awards to $300 million per fiscal year. The act will take effect on December 1, 2025, pending voter approval of a related constitutional amendment for funding.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 36.10, Education Code 61.003, Government Code 572.003 (Education Code 61, Government Code 572, Education Code 36)