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Bill

HB 1938

Relating to preliminary examination periods for mental health protective custody and the criteria for and duration of certain court-ordered mental health services.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Liz Campos and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1938 modifies Texas mental health protective custody procedures, adjusting examination timelines and court-ordered service criteria to balance involuntary psychiatric detention with individual civil liberties.

Left pending in committee
#mentalhealth&substanceabuse(i0019)
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Bill Summary · HB 1938

Legislative bill overview

HB 1938 modifies Texas law governing mental health protective custody by adjusting preliminary examination periods and refining criteria for court-ordered mental health services. The bill addresses procedural timelines and standards for individuals detained for psychiatric evaluation and treatment under state authority.

Why is this important

Mental health custody laws directly affect vulnerable populations' civil liberties and access to care. Changes to examination periods and service criteria can significantly impact how quickly individuals are evaluated, whether they receive appropriate treatment, and the duration they remain under state control—balancing public safety with individual rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Examination timeline changes: Adjustments to preliminary examination periods could either expedite necessary treatment or potentially accelerate involuntary detention, depending on whether timelines are shortened or lengthened
  • Criteria modifications: Altered standards for what qualifies someone for court-ordered services may expand or restrict access to mental health treatment and involuntary commitment authority
  • Duration of court-ordered services: Changes to how long individuals can be subject to court orders raises questions about proportionality, treatment effectiveness windows, and individual autonomy versus state paternalism

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

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