S.B. No. 5 establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, aimed at enhancing research and innovation related to dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and similar disorders. The bill introduces Chapter 101A to the Health and Safety Code, defining key terms and outlining the Institute's primary purposes, which include expediting research, improving health outcomes, and attracting research capabilities through grant awards. The Institute will be governed by an oversight committee composed of nine members appointed by state leaders, and it is required to prepare an annual public report to ensure transparency. The bill also includes a sunset provision, stating that the Institute will be abolished on September 1, 2035, unless continued by the legislature.

The bill introduces several provisions regarding grant management, compliance, and conflict-of-interest regulations. It mandates the establishment of a chief compliance officer to oversee compliance with reporting requirements and investigate allegations of fraud or abuse. Additionally, it outlines the creation of a Dementia Prevention and Research Fund to support research and prevention efforts, with specific rules for grant disbursement and management. The bill emphasizes the importance of local purchasing and includes provisions for regular inspections of grant projects. It also clarifies that certain disclosures related to gifts and grants to the Institute are not considered voluntary under the Government Code, expanding the definition of relevant governing bodies to include the Institute. The act is set to take effect on December 1, 2025, contingent upon voter approval of a related constitutional amendment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.955, Education Code 61.003, Government Code 572.003 (Government Code 572, Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 51.955, Government Code 572.003 (Government Code 572, Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.955, Government Code 572.003 (Government Code 572, Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
House Committee Report: Education Code 51.955, Government Code 572.003 (Government Code 572, Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Enrolled: Education Code 51.955, Government Code 572.003 (Government Code 572, Education Code 61, Education Code 51)