S.B. No. 2487 aims to enhance the procedures and facilities providing crisis and mental health services in Texas. The bill introduces a new section, 573.020, which mandates that a non-physician mental health professional must examine individuals arriving at crisis service facilities within 30 minutes if an application for detention has been filed or if a peace officer has notified the facility of a detention. Additionally, it allows facilities to detain individuals who reject voluntary mental health services if there is reasonable cause to believe they pose a substantial risk of harm due to mental illness. The bill also amends existing sections to ensure that individuals are examined promptly and receive referrals to outpatient services upon release.

Furthermore, the bill establishes Chapter 580, which allows counties with populations over 1.2 million to create comprehensive crisis service models. These models can include various services such as crisis intervention, short-term residential care, and coordination with homelessness service providers. The legislation emphasizes the importance of follow-up services within 48 hours of initial intervention and requires counties to report on the outcomes of individuals receiving services. The bill also mandates the formation of an advisory board for each crisis service model to oversee operations and ensure community involvement. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and the implementation is contingent upon legislative appropriations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 573.021, Health and Safety Code 573.023 (Health and Safety Code 573)
Senate Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 573.021, Health and Safety Code 573.023 (Health and Safety Code 573)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 573.021, Health and Safety Code 573.023 (Health and Safety Code 573)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 573.021, Health and Safety Code 573.023 (Health and Safety Code 573)