Honorable Jeff Wentworth, Chair, Senate Committee on Jurisprudence
FROM:
John S. O'Brien, Deputy Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2518 by Coleman (Relating to the requirements of a mental health court program.), As Engrossed
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend Section 616.003 of the Health and Safety Code to ensure the right of persons with mental illness to receive legal counsel before volunteering to participate in a mental health court program. The bill would also provide for the right to withdraw from participation in a mental health court program (before trial begins) and the right to an individualized treatment plan. Jurisdiction of the mental health court would extend at least six months but not beyond the probationary period for the offense charged if the probationary period is longer than six months.
The bill would take effect September 1, 2005.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council, 537 Department of State Health Services, 539 Department of Aging and Disability Services