The bill establishes a new section in Florida law, specifically creating Section 394.6581, which mandates the Department of Children and Families to implement Crisis Care Coordination Pilot Programs in Polk and Volusia Counties, contingent upon funding. The primary objectives of these pilot programs are to reduce the frequency of involuntary examinations initiated by law enforcement, provide alternative crisis intervention options for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises, and facilitate their engagement with behavioral health care. The programs will involve partnerships between local law enforcement and accredited community mental health centers, with crisis counselors embedded within law enforcement agencies to offer immediate support and follow-up care.
Additionally, the bill requires the Department to contract for an independent evaluation of the pilot programs, with a report due by January 15, 2029, detailing their effectiveness, return on investment, and recommendations for future enhancements. The department is also granted rulemaking authority to implement the provisions of this section, which is set to expire on June 30, 2029. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.