S.B. No. 1580 amends Section 533.0351(a) of the Health and Safety Code regarding the composition of the governing body of local mental health authorities in Texas. The bill stipulates that for a local authority serving a single county, the governing body must include the county sheriff as an ex officio nonvoting member. For authorities serving multiple counties, the bill requires the inclusion of two sheriffs as ex officio nonvoting members, chosen according to specified guidelines. Additionally, the bill introduces a new requirement that a veteran be selected by a majority of the governing body members to also serve on the governing body.

The bill mandates that local mental health authorities must comply with these new requirements by September 1, 2026, and it is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislative change aims to enhance the representation and inclusivity of the governing bodies overseeing mental health services at the local level.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)
Enrolled: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)