Healthcare (Mental Health)

HB 281 establishes a statewide system for coordinating mental health services during disasters. It requires the Health and Human Services Commission to designate staff to work with emergency management, manage federal crisis counseling grants, maintain a registry of mental health professionals, and provide technical assistance to local authorities. Local mental health authorities must include disaster behavioral health plans in their emergency preparations, track personnel, and identify vulnerable groups like children, elderly residents, and individuals with disabilities. The bill mandates deployment of services within 72 hours of a disaster declaration and specifies services including crisis counseling, referrals, and support for first responders. It directly affects state agencies, local mental health authorities, and disaster-affected communities across Texas.