Bill > HJR24

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas, a specialized research organization dedicated to advancing understanding and treatment of mental health and brain-related conditions. The institute would be authorized to award grants to academic institutions, medical research facilities, and collaborative teams to conduct comprehensive research on mental health issues, brain diseases, developmental challenges, neurological conditions, behavioral health, and substance use disorders. The resolution creates a dedicated research fund, with an initial transfer of $3 billion from the general revenue fund in January 2026, and allows the institute to receive additional funding through legislative appropriations, gifts, grants, and investment earnings. The institute's mandate includes supporting research from laboratory investigations to clinical trials, developing treatment therapies and protocols, and establishing prevention programs. Grant recipients must demonstrate matching funds equal to half the grant amount, and the institute's governing body can serve six-year terms. The proposed amendment will be submitted to voters in a November 4, 2025 election, with the ballot specifically asking about creating the institute, establishing its research fund, and transferring state general revenue to support these efforts.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR24