Too many Texans with severe mental illness are dying in jail while waiting for a state hospital bed. The case of Fernando Macias is a heartbreaking example. Fernando, who struggled with schizophrenia and other mental health disorders, died in Bexar County custody in 2018 while waiting for a state hospital bed. After a tragic standoff with police that resulted in his mother’s death, Fernando was found incompetent to stand trial and placed on a waitlist for treatment. Before he could receive care, he passed away. His death was classified as natural, despite his significant medical needs and refusal to take medication.

Fernando’s story is not an isolated incident. At least 54 people have died since 2018 while waiting for a state hospital bed, and the state is not tracking these deaths.

The backlog for competency restoration continues to leave thousands untreated, with the system failing both those in need of care and victims seeking justice. Despite billions spent on renovations, the waitlist crisis persists, and the state still refuses to track when people die while awaiting treatment.

We demand that Texas fully fund and expand mental health treatment, eliminate the waitlist crisis, and require tracking of deaths and outcomes. No one should suffer or die in jail because they can’t access the care they need. It’s time for Texas leaders to act.

Sign this petition to demand real change before more lives are lost.