S.B. No. 151 establishes a matching grant program aimed at enhancing technological capabilities in health care facilities that provide mental health services in Texas. The bill introduces Section 531.09915 to the Government Code, defining eligible health care facilities as hospitals licensed under specific chapters of the Health and Safety Code, particularly those located in rural counties or those licensed under Chapter 577. The program requires facilities to demonstrate how grant funds will improve mental health care quality and access, align with interoperability standards from the 21st Century Cures Act, and meet additional criteria set by the commission.

To qualify for the grants, health care facilities must provide non-state sourced funds equal to 25% of the grant amount, which can be raised through gifts, grants, or donations. The funds can be used for various technological improvements, including purchasing certified electronic health record platforms, enhancing interoperability, expanding patient access to digital health records, and improving data privacy and security. The commission is tasked with reporting on the program's outcomes every two years and may adopt necessary rules for implementation. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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