The bill 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. It specifies that for local authorities serving only one county, the sheriff of that county will serve as an ex officio nonvoting member. For those serving two or more counties, two sheriffs will be included as ex officio nonvoting members. Additionally, the bill introduces a new requirement that each governing body must also include a veteran selected by a majority of its members.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that by December 1, 2025, each local mental health authority governing body must select a veteran to serve in this capacity. The changes outlined in the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Health and Safety Code 533.0351 (Health and Safety Code 533)