SRC-JJJ, DBM H.B. 1797 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 1797 76R4765 JJT-DBy: Tillery (Carona) Human Services 5/10/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, an order of protective custody is necessary to transfer a person from an emergency facility to an appropriate hospital, if the person has been admitted for emergency detention in order to have a mental health evaluation. Obtaining an order of protective custody during nonbusiness hours can take time, and there may not always be a safe place for the patients to remain temporarily while awaiting transfer to an appropriate hospital. H.B. 1797 would set forth provisions regarding the transportation of certain individuals who may have a mental illness and are admitted to a county mental health facility for emergency detention. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 1797 sets forth provisions regarding the transportation of certain individuals who may have a mental illness and are admitted to a county mental health facility for emergency detention. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 573.022, Health and Safety Code, to authorize a county mental health facility that has admitted a person for emergency detention under this section to transport the person to certain appropriate facilities. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.