House Bill No. 5537 amends the Occupations Code to expand the prescriptive authority of certain psychologists in Texas by introducing a new subchapter, H-1. This subchapter establishes a framework for issuing prescription certificates to psychologists who meet specific training and experience requirements, defining a "prescribing psychologist" and outlining their ability to issue prescription drug orders, administer medications, and supervise the administration of psychotropic medications. The bill mandates that these psychologists notify a patient's primary care practitioner within specified timeframes after issuing prescriptions or making changes to medication. Additionally, it modifies the composition of the board overseeing psychology practice to ensure representation from various fields, including those with certificates under the new subchapter, and establishes an advisory committee on prescriptive authority to make recommendations regarding regulation and standards of practice.

The bill also clarifies the definition of "practitioner" and the scope of professional nursing, allowing for the administration of medication or treatment as ordered by a legally authorized health care practitioner, which now includes psychologists. It sets forth requirements for obtaining a prescription certificate, mandates record-keeping for all prescription drug orders, and prohibits the delegation of prescribing authority. Furthermore, the legislation enhances oversight of prescription practices by requiring collaboration between the Texas Medical Board and the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, emphasizing informed consent for administering psychoactive medications. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, ensuring that current board members can complete their terms while future appointments must meet the new qualifications.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 501.003, Occupations Code 501.051, Health and Safety Code 481.002, Health and Safety Code 157.0511, Health and Safety Code 481.076, Health and Safety Code 483.001, Occupations Code 301.002, Occupations Code 551.003 (Health and Safety Code 481, Occupations Code 301, Occupations Code 551, Health and Safety Code 157, Health and Safety Code 483, Occupations Code 501)