The bill, H.B. No. 114, proposes the transition of certain veterans' mental health initiatives from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission. It introduces a new grant program aimed at supporting community mental health programs that provide services and treatment to veterans and their families. The bill outlines specific requirements for grant recipients, including the necessity to secure matching funds from non-state sources, and establishes criteria for evaluating grant applications. Additionally, it mandates that the commission submit an annual report detailing the number of veterans served, the training provided, and recommendations for program improvements.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing provisions to enhance the mental health program for veterans, including the addition of new initiatives focused on suicide prevention and the development of specialized training for peer counselors. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including advocacy groups and medical providers, to create a comprehensive action plan aimed at increasing access to mental health services for veterans. The bill also repeals certain outdated provisions and sets a deadline for the implementation of the new initiatives by September 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 434.352 (Government Code 434)
House Committee Report: Government Code 434.352 (Government Code 434)