H.B. No. 5342 establishes a new framework for behavioral health crisis services in Texas, specifically focusing on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The bill introduces Subchapter K to Chapter 547 of the Government Code, which includes the creation of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Trust Fund. This trust fund will be administered by the Health and Human Services Commission and will consist of gifts, grants, donations, and income generated from the fund. The funds will be allocated to implement, maintain, and improve the 988 Lifeline, including necessary personnel and technological enhancements, while ensuring that the trust fund's assets are managed prudently.

Additionally, the bill mandates the commission to prepare an annual report on the usage of crisis centers participating in the 988 network and to conduct a study on potential funding mechanisms to support the Lifeline's operations, including the feasibility of a service fee on telecommunication services. The findings of this study, along with recommendations for enhancing crisis intervention services, must be submitted to the legislature by December 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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