To the extent money is appropriated to the commission for that purpose, the commission shall establish a matching grant program to provide support to eligible entities for community-based initiatives that promote identification of mental health issues and improve access to early intervention and treatment for children and families. The initiatives may:

1. (1) be evidence-based or otherwise demonstrate positive outcomes, including:

   1. (A) improved relationship skills;
   2. (B) improved self-esteem;
   3. (C) reduced involvement in the juvenile justice system;
   4. (D) participation in the relinquishment avoidance program under Subchapter E, Chapter 262, Family Code; and
   5. (E) avoidance of emergency room use; and

2. (2) include:

   1. (A) training; and

   2. (B) services and supports for:

      1. (i) community-based initiatives;
      2. (ii) agencies that provide services to children and families;
      3. (iii) individuals who work with children or caregivers of children showing atypical social or emotional development or other challenging behaviors; and

      4. (iv) children in or at risk of placement in foster care or the juvenile justice system.

         Transferred, redesignated and amended from Government Code, Section 531.09915(b) by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 204 (H.B. 1620), Sec. 8.044(b), eff. September 1, 2025.

Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1035 (S.B. 26), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2023.