Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is distributing $239 million in construction grants aimed at expanding inpatient mental health care access in rural Texas. The initiative seeks to assist rural communities in treating patients with acute psychiatric illnesses locally, reducing the need for travel to major urban centers.

“The State of Texas continues working to expand access to critical mental health resources to ensure Texans get the support they need, no matter where they live,” stated Governor Abbott. He further explained that the investment would enable rural communities and local governments to provide treatment closer to home for those with acute psychiatric conditions. He expressed gratitude towards the Texas Legislature and HHSC for their efforts in enhancing mental health care accessibility across Texas.

Scott Schalchlin, Deputy Executive Commissioner for HHSC Health and Specialty Care System, emphasized HHSC's commitment to collaborating with the Legislature. “The program supports hospitals and local governments that understand the needs of their communities, enabling more people to receive support right where they live,” Schalchlin noted.

The funding will facilitate up to 332 beds for mental health patients across four communities. Specifically:

- DHR Health in Edinburg will receive $85 million for up to 100 beds.

- Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas in Beaumont will be allocated $64 million for repairs, renovations, and an additional 72 beds.

- Montgomery County Mental Health Treatment Facility in Conroe will see a $50 million expansion for up to 100 beds.

- A new facility in Victoria County will be developed with a $40 million grant providing up to 60 beds.

Governor Abbott, along with the 88th Texas Legislature, sanctioned funding for constructing or expanding four mental health facilities designed to reserve at least half of their capacity for forensic patients. These are individuals admitted through the criminal justice system requiring competency restoration—a process necessary before standing trial.

The awarded grant contracts are currently progressing through various stages of design and document preparation.

For more information on other funding opportunities, visit the HHSC grants page.