Senate Bill No. 53, introduced by Zaffirini, amends the Health and Safety Code to update notice and filing requirements in court proceedings involving individuals with mental illness. The bill specifies that notice may be given either through personal delivery by a constable or sheriff or in another manner directed by the court that ensures actual notice is received. Additionally, it allows individuals to file documents with the county clerk using reproduced, photocopied, or electronically transmitted copies, provided they maintain possession of the original signed documents and make them available for inspection upon request.

The bill also repeals a subsection related to the initial filing process and the associated 72-hour deadline for submitting original signed copies, which included provisions for extensions due to weekends, holidays, or hazardous conditions. This change aims to streamline the filing process and reduce potential delays in court proceedings for individuals with mental illness. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 571.013, Health and Safety Code 571.014 (Health and Safety Code 571)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 571.013, Health and Safety Code 571.014 (Health and Safety Code 571)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 571.013, Health and Safety Code 571.014 (Health and Safety Code 571)