Commissioners Court directed county departments to work together to draft a countywide paid mental health leave policy for full-time employees and report back to the August 6, 2026 meeting with options to update the county's personnel policies.

What it means for you

Full-time Harris County employees not already covered by a department-level mental health leave policy could gain access to paid mental health leave if a new policy is eventually adopted.

Outcome

A motion was made by County Judge Hidalgo, seconded by Commissioner Ellis, to direct Human Resources and Talent to coordinate with the Office of County Administration, County Attorney’s Office, Office of Management and Budget, Universal Services, Auditor’s Office, and other relevant departments on drafting a countywide Paid Mental Health Leave policy that applies to all regular, full-time employees not already covered by an existing department policy, and return to the August 6, 2026 Commissioners Court meeting to present options to amend the Harris County Personnel Policies & Procedures. The motion carried by the following vote: (5-0)

How each member voted

5–0, per the official record.