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Bill

HB 1455

Relating to the collection and reporting of information regarding mental health jail diversion.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Jo Jones

HB 1455 mandates Texas counties collect and report standardized data on mental health jail diversion programs to evaluate effectiveness and improve resource allocation statewide.

No action taken in committee
#corrections--jails&prisons(i0092) #disabilities #personswith(i0380) #lawenforcement #texascommissionon(v0986) #lawenforcement(i0510) #mentalhealth&substanceabuse(i0019) #peaceofficers(s0007) #restraints(s0524)
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Bill Summary · HB 1455

Legislative bill overview

HB 1455 requires Texas counties to collect and report standardized data on mental health jail diversion programs—initiatives that redirect individuals with mental health crises away from the criminal justice system. The bill establishes reporting requirements to track program effectiveness, participant outcomes, and resource utilization across the state's jail diversion efforts.

Why is this important

Mental health jail diversion programs are increasingly recognized as alternatives to incarceration for individuals in crisis, potentially reducing jail populations, costs, and recidivism while improving mental health outcomes. Standardized data collection would provide policymakers with concrete evidence about which programs work, where gaps exist, and how to allocate resources more effectively across Texas counties.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Counties may resist additional reporting requirements due to administrative costs and staffing needs, particularly in smaller jurisdictions with limited resources
  • Data standardization complexity: Establishing uniform definitions and metrics across diverse county programs could be technically challenging and may require system upgrades
  • Privacy concerns: Collecting mental health information on diverted individuals raises questions about data security, consent, and how information will be used or shared

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

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