S.B. No. 53 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 reproduced, photocopied, or electronically transmitted documents with the county clerk, provided they maintain possession of the original signed copies for inspection by the court or other parties.

The bill also repeals a subsection related to the 72-hour filing requirement and its extensions due to weekends, holidays, or hazardous conditions, thereby simplifying the filing process. The changes aim to streamline court procedures and improve the efficiency of legal processes involving persons with mental illness. This 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)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 571.013, Health and Safety Code 571.014 (Health and Safety Code 571)
Enrolled: Health and Safety Code 571.013, Health and Safety Code 571.014 (Health and Safety Code 571)