Relating to mental health care and mental health assessment programs for first responders.

HB 4861 requires Texas cities, counties, and other political subdivisions that employ first responders - including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel - to establish mandatory mental health assessment programs for those involved in critical incidents. The bill defines critical incidents as events like discharging a weapon causing death or serious injury, or witnessing a fellow responder's death or serious injury, and mandates that assessments be completed within 10 days by licensed mental health professionals. Key provisions prohibit termination or retaliation against first responders for seeking mental health care, require evidence-based assessments including suicidal ideation screening, and ensure confidentiality of all evaluations under existing health privacy laws. The bill directly affects first responders and their employers by creating a structured, supportive framework for mental health care access following traumatic events.