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HJR 24

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas and the Mental Health and Brain Institute Research Fund to provide funding for scientific research of mental health issues and human brain diseases and disorders.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Senfronia Thompson

Proposes constitutional amendment creating Texas Mental Health and Brain Research Institute with dedicated funding for neuroscience and mental health research studies.

Referred to Higher Education
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Bill Summary · HJR 24

Legislative bill overview

HJR 24 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas and create a dedicated research fund. The amendment would authorize the state to fund scientific research into mental health issues and neurological diseases through this new state institution.

Why is this important

Mental health and neurological disorders affect millions of Texans and impose significant healthcare and economic costs. By embedding this research initiative in the state constitution, the bill aims to create permanent, dedicated funding for research that could lead to better treatments and prevention strategies. Constitutional amendments carry substantial weight and signal long-term state commitment to an issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional amendments are difficult to reverse: Once approved by voters, this creates a permanent state obligation that future legislatures cannot easily eliminate, raising questions about fiscal flexibility and competing budget priorities
  • Funding mechanism unclear: The proposal doesn't specify how the research fund would be financed or what budget impact it would have, leaving questions about whether this requires new taxes or reallocation of existing funds
  • Scope and governance questions: Details about the institute's structure, management, research priorities, and accountability measures are not addressed in the bill summary, raising concerns about how effectively funds would be spent

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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