The bill, introduced by Senator Menndez, aims to enhance suicide prevention efforts in Texas by establishing a model suicide prevention policy and integrating suicide intervention strategies into state agency crisis and disaster plans. It mandates the development of a comprehensive model policy that includes information on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention, as well as resources for individuals at risk. The policy is intended for implementation by non-professionals in various public and private institutions serving high-risk populations, such as veterans and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the bill requires collaboration with the statewide behavioral health coordinating council and the Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative to ensure effective policy development.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to improve the collection and dissemination of suicide-related data. It requires the Department of State Health Services to provide access to suicide information to the statewide suicide prevention coordinator and establishes the Texas Violent Death Reporting System to participate in national data collection efforts. The bill also sets deadlines for state agencies to incorporate suicide prevention strategies into their crisis plans by August 2027. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a more robust framework for addressing suicide prevention and intervention across Texas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 191.002 (Health and Safety Code 191)