Judge Guy Herman addresses outdated technology in Texas mental health law review

The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss several key legislative matters, including updates to mental health record-keeping laws and the advancement of various bills.

Judge Guy Herman, presiding statutory probate court judge, provided testimony on Senate Bill 53, which aims to modernize outdated technology related to mental health case records. Judge Herman emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate records and clarified that the burden of proof in mental health cases is "clear and convincing evidence." He noted that current practices are not being followed, leading to inefficiencies in how records are handled in court. The proposed bill would allow medical hospitals to retain these records and provide them when necessary, streamlining the process for both the state and defense attorneys involved in mental health cases.

The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 502, which includes a committee substitute that provides for the drafting of alleged counsel numbers. Senator Hancock moved for the adoption of this substitute, which was approved unanimously. Following this, the committee voted to favorably report Senate Bill 502, recommending it for the local and uncontested calendars.

Additionally, Senate Bill 670 was discussed and similarly reported favorably with no objections. The committee's actions reflect a continued effort to refine legislative processes and improve the handling of mental health cases in Texas.

The meeting concluded with the chair laying out Senate Bill 315, indicating ongoing legislative activity in the health and human services sector. The committee's decisions are expected to enhance the efficiency of mental health proceedings and ensure better compliance with legal standards.