The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 378, aims to secure funding for law enforcement crisis intervention teams by appropriating a specified sum of money from the General Fund to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. This funding is intended for each of the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027. The bill emphasizes the importance of these teams in addressing mental health crises and ensuring effective law enforcement responses.
The primary objective of the bill is to provide permanent funding for these crisis intervention teams, which play a crucial role in managing situations involving individuals experiencing mental health challenges. By establishing a dedicated financial resource, the bill seeks to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in handling such crises, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for individuals in need of mental health support.