This bill aims to enhance substance abuse and mental health care services in Florida by incorporating the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline call center into existing crisis services. It amends several sections of Florida Statutes, including s. 394.4573 and s. 394.67, to define and expand crisis services to include the 988 call center, which will provide telephonic support for individuals in crisis. The bill also establishes a new section, s. 394.9088, which mandates the Department of Children and Families to oversee these call centers, ensuring they meet national accreditation standards and adhere to specific operational rules. Additionally, it revises training requirements for mental health professionals and court-appointed experts to ensure they are adequately prepared to handle cases involving mental health evaluations.

Furthermore, the bill removes certain requirements related to medication-assisted treatment services for opiate addiction, streamlining the process for establishing such services. It also updates the definitions and eligibility criteria for publicly funded mental health services, ensuring that individuals experiencing acute crises can access necessary support regardless of their financial situation. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1240 Filed: 394.4573, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 394.74