78R395 SMJ-D

By:  Shapleigh                                                    S.B. No. 489



A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to a plan for equitable distribution and funding of mental 
health services in this state.
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:                        
	SECTION 1.  Subchapter B, Chapter 533, Health and Safety 
Code, is amended by adding Section 533.049 to read as follows:
	Sec. 533.049.  PLAN FOR EQUITY IN SERVICE DISTRIBUTION AND 
FUNDING.  The department shall develop and implement a plan that 
achieves equity in the distribution and funding of mental health 
services among communities in this state not later than September 
1, 2009.  The plan must address local and statewide changes in 
population and in the need for department services.
	SECTION 2. (a)  This Act takes effect immediately if it 
receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each 
house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas 
Constitution.  If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for 
immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2003.
	(b)  This Act expires September 1, 2009.