The bill, H.B. No. 1621, proposes the establishment of a matching grant program aimed at enhancing technological capabilities in hospitals that provide mental health care services in Texas. It introduces a new subchapter, Subchapter K, to Chapter 547 of the Government Code, which outlines the applicability of the program to hospitals licensed under specific chapters of the Health and Safety Code. The bill mandates the Texas commission to create this program, detailing eligibility criteria for hospitals to receive grants, which include demonstrating planned uses for the funds and aligning with federal interoperability standards.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that hospitals must match the grant amount with non-state sourced funds, which can be raised through gifts, grants, or donations. It specifies acceptable uses for the grant money, such as purchasing data recording platforms, improving information technology infrastructure, and enhancing patient access to digital health records. The commission is also authorized to solicit donations to support the program and is required to submit a biennial report to the legislature on the program's outcomes. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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