Texas lawmakers will consider six options from the Department of State Health Services for replacing or relocating the Austin State Hospital during the 85th legislative session that began Jan. 10.[/caption]

What we reported

Austin-area residents in need of psychiatric care have limited options to find help. In 2015, Travis and Williamson counties met federal designations for having partial mental health professional shortages.

The latest

In September, state Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, called for a new focus on mental health care in Texas and said the proposed replacement of the deteriorating Austin State Hospital presents a unique opportunity to open a new psychiatric care facility at the hospital’s Guadalupe Street campus.

What’s next

Texas House Speaker Joe Straus, R-San Antonio, said in December that improving Texas’ mental health care system would be a priority for lawmakers in 2017. Texas lawmakers will consider six options from the Department of State Health Services for replacing or relocating the hospital during the 85th legislative session that began Jan. 10.

This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for in 2017 here.