Bill > HB588

This bill modifies the responsibilities of sheriffs and their deputies when handling defendants who have been discharged from mental health facilities or competency restoration programs. Under the new provisions, sheriffs must ensure that defendants continue to receive their prescribed medications, and they are now explicitly required to compel defendants to take their medications to maintain continuity of care. If a defendant is on psychotropic medication upon discharge, the sheriff must continue administering those medications unless a jail physician directs otherwise, and any changes must be carefully documented after consulting with the treating physician to avoid negatively impacting the defendant's mental health or court proceedings. The bill also changes the reimbursement mechanism, mandating that the commission will now reimburse sheriffs for the cost of providing medications, replacing the previous language that made reimbursement contingent on appropriated funds. Additionally, the bill repeals a previous subsection of the law and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB588