The bill establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas as a new entity under Chapter 101A of the Health and Safety Code, aimed at advancing dementia research and improving health outcomes for affected residents. It outlines the institute's governance structure, including the formation of an oversight committee and the appointment of a chief compliance officer to ensure regulatory adherence and proper fund management. The institute will have the authority to conduct research, develop therapies, and implement prevention programs, with a focus on transparency through annual public reporting of its activities and financial audits. The bill also incorporates provisions for conflict of interest disclosures and mandates the establishment of a Higher Education Advisory Committee to provide guidance on dementia-related research.

Additionally, the bill creates the Dementia Prevention and Research Fund, which will support research and prevention initiatives, with strict limitations on grant expenditures and requirements for conflict of interest management among committee members. It sets a cap on total grants awarded in a fiscal year and outlines specific requirements for grant contracts, including matching funds and documentation. The legislation emphasizes ethical standards in grant management, ensuring that oversight committee members cannot influence decisions related to their employers. The act will take effect on December 1, 2025, contingent upon voter approval of a constitutional amendment for funding.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.955, Education Code 61.003, Government Code 572.003 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51, Government Code 572)