JCMH Rural Issues Committee

Rural communities in Texas make up an overwhelming number of jurisdictions in the state, and the issues they face are unique and often overlooked. Limited access to healthcare professionals, travel distances, and funding issues are among the most-common issues we’ve heard raised by rural communities, and so JCMH is launching a committee dedicated to focusing on the issues faced by rural communities at the intersection of mental health and justice.

This committee will focus on collaboration, idea-sharing, and adapting solutions to rural communities. Bringing together experts and community and judicial leaders can develop sustainable solutions, and raise common obstacles for statewide consideration. Keep an eye out for more information on partnering in these efforts, and email us at jcmh@txcourts.gov to express interest or share your ideas!

Treatment Advocacy Center AOT Civil Commitment Training

Assisted Outpatient Treatment has been available as an opportunity in Texas courts for twenty years, but questions about process and implementation are frequent. Proponents believe AOT is an avenue to efficiently and effectively guide patients and providers in achieving the best possible outcomes and preventing a "revolving door" of appearances in the justice system. For anyone looking to learn more about AOT, the Transfer to Civil Commitment with Assisted Outpatient Treatment training offered by the Treatment Advocacy Center in San Antonio on June 5-6, 2025 will be an excellent resource. There are only a few spaces remaining for this free event, so register now!

JCMH has limited travel and accommodation scholarships available to judges and attorneys to this and other conferences or trainings that relate to the mission of JCMH: to engage and empower court systems through collaboration, education, and leadership, improving the lives of individuals with mental health needs, substance use disorders, or intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information or to request consideration for a scholarship, please email jcmh@txcourts.gov.