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 initial filing process and the 72-hour requirement for submitting original signed copies, which previously included provisions for extensions due to weekends, holidays, or hazardous conditions. By streamlining these processes, the bill aims to facilitate more efficient 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)