Bill > HB1593

This bill establishes an advisory committee within the Texas Commission on Fire Protection to study suicide prevention and peer support programs for fire departments in Texas. The committee will consist of 10 members, including fire fighters from different state associations, fire chiefs, mental health professionals, and the executive director of the commission. These members will be appointed by various firefighter organizations and the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service. The committee's primary task is to prepare and submit a comprehensive report to the governor and legislature by September 1, 2026, which will provide an overview of current suicide prevention and peer support efforts in fire departments, address potential licensing and confidentiality issues, and make recommendations for future legislative action, local government initiatives, and specific suicide prevention programs. The advisory committee will have the flexibility to meet in person or through electronic means, and the commission will provide necessary administrative support. The committee will be automatically dissolved, and the bill will expire on January 10, 2027, with the bill taking effect on September 1, 2025. The goal is to develop targeted strategies to support the mental health and well-being of firefighters in Texas.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1593