Bill > HB899

This bill modifies existing Texas law regarding medication administration for defendants in sheriff custody, particularly those discharged from competency restoration programs. The bill requires sheriffs or deputies to ensure that defendants continue to receive their prescribed medications upon discharge and, if necessary, compel the defendant to take those medications to maintain continuity of care. When a defendant is being treated with psychotropic medication at discharge, the sheriff must ensure medication administration continues unless a jail physician specifically directs otherwise. In such cases, the jail physician must document any medication changes and consult with the facility's original treating physician to ensure the changes do not negatively impact the defendant's mental health or court proceedings. The bill also changes the reimbursement mechanism, mandating that the commission will now directly reimburse sheriffs for medication costs, instead of relying on appropriated funds. The legislation will take effect on September 1, 2025, and removes a previously existing subsection of the law (Article 46B.0825(c)).

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB899