S.B. No. 2849 aims to enhance mental health support for pregnant inmates and those who have recently given birth while in county jails or under the custody of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The bill introduces a new section, Sec. 501.0655, which mandates that each pregnant inmate or those who have given birth in the past year undergo depression screenings at specified intervals: once each trimester during pregnancy, once during the six-week period following childbirth, and again at six and twelve months postpartum. This initiative is designed to ensure that mental health needs are adequately addressed for this vulnerable population.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 511.009(a) of the Government Code to include requirements for county jails to determine if a prisoner is pregnant and to ensure that their health services plan includes mental health care, specifically the depression screenings mentioned earlier. The amendments also emphasize the need for comprehensive medical care, nutritional requirements, and appropriate housing for pregnant prisoners. The Commission on Jail Standards is tasked with adopting the necessary rules and procedures by December 1, 2025, with the act set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 511.009 (Government Code 511)