H.B. No. 2103 proposes the adoption of a mental health leave policy specifically for jailers, in addition to peace officers and telecommunicators, under Section 614.015 of the Government Code. The bill defines "jailer" and mandates that each law enforcement agency, as well as agencies employing jailers or full-time telecommunicators, develop and implement a policy that allows these employees to take mental health leave following a traumatic event encountered in the line of duty. The policy must include clear guidelines for granting leave, ensure no salary deductions during the leave, specify the number of leave days available, and outline the level of anonymity for those taking leave.

The bill also allows for the inclusion of a list of mental health services available to these employees within the adopted policy. Agencies are required to implement this mental health leave policy as soon as practicable after the bill's effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. The amendments to the existing law include the insertion of definitions and provisions specifically addressing jailers, thereby expanding the scope of mental health leave to include this group of law enforcement personnel.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 614.015 (Government Code 614)
House Committee Report: Government Code 614.015 (Government Code 614)