DALLAS – August 27, 2025 – Andy Keller, the president and CEO of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, released this statement on the signing of Senate Bill 25:
“Texas is leading the nation in the fight for our children’s mental and physical health with Senate Bill 25. This legislation offers common-sense solutions to improve overall health and combat chronic disease across the state. As rates of chronic anxiety and depression continue to rise among children, we know that a healthy diet and regular exercise aren’t just good for the body — they’re essential for the mind. By prioritizing health education, nutrition, and daily physical activity in schools, we can address challenges early — before they become crises.
I applaud Senator Lois Kolkhorst for her thoughtful leadership in championing this legislation, and I thank Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Representative Lacey Hull, and Governor Greg Abbott for taking this important step toward making Texas healthy again.”
About the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute
Independent and nonpartisan, the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute works at the intersection of policy and programs to create equitable systemic changes so all people in Texas, the nation, and the world can obtain the health care they need. The Meadows Institute provides state and national leaders with data-driven, trusted policy and program guidance, and works to shift the focus of new investments toward early intervention for children and families, address the mental health crisis in our jails and emergency rooms, and help all people with mental health needs recover and be well. Learn more at https://new.mmhpi.org.
Media Contact
Brian Sweany
bsweany@mmhpi.org or 214.681.2514