The bill, S.B. No. 2264, aims to enhance the collection and reporting of information related to mental health jail diversion in Texas. It introduces a new article, Article 2B.00541, to the Code of Criminal Procedure, which mandates that peace officers report specific information when arresting individuals they believe may have a mental illness or intellectual disability. This includes details about the individual's behavior, the reason for the arrest, any searches conducted, and whether efforts were made to divert the individual to appropriate treatment. Additionally, the bill requires law enforcement agencies to compile and analyze this information to evaluate the effectiveness of diversion efforts and the use of force during arrests.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing provisions to include the requirement for counties to report on individuals in jail suspected of having mental health issues or intellectual disabilities. This includes data on screenings, notifications to magistrates, and the outcomes of interviews conducted with these individuals. The legislation emphasizes the importance of accurate reporting and accountability within law enforcement agencies, with the chief administrator of each agency responsible for auditing compliance with these new reporting requirements. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the first report due by October 5, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 511.0101, Occupations Code 1701.164 (Government Code 511, Occupations Code 1701)