S.B. No. 2999 amends the Occupations Code in Texas to expand the prescriptive authority of certain psychologists, allowing them to prescribe psychotropic medications under a new framework that includes obtaining conditional and full prescription certificates. To qualify for these certificates, psychologists must complete a training program in psychopharmacology, pass a nationally recognized examination, and secure professional liability coverage. The bill also establishes an advisory committee composed of members from diverse backgrounds in psychology and medicine to provide recommendations on regulations, standards of practice, and continuing education for psychologists with prescriptive authority. Additionally, psychologists are required to notify a patient's primary care practitioner when issuing prescriptions, ensuring coordinated care.

The legislation further clarifies the definitions of "practitioner" and "professional nursing," expanding the term "practitioner" to include psychologists and other licensed professionals, and specifies that advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants can also prescribe under certain conditions. It outlines the responsibilities of prescribing psychologists, including maintaining records of all prescription drug orders and prohibiting the delegation of their prescribing authority. The bill also sets timelines for the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council to appoint advisory committee members and adopt necessary rules, while ensuring that current board members can complete their terms. The act is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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 (Occupations Code 501, Occupations Code 551, Occupations Code 301, Health and Safety Code 157, Health and Safety Code 483, Health and Safety Code 481)