This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 403.03, to enhance the 911 emergency response system by incorporating mental health crisis services as primary responders. It mandates that every public safety answering point (PSAP) must implement a program to identify individuals in need of mental health crisis services, either through training 911 telecommunicators or employing mental health practitioners to screen calls. Additionally, the Statewide Emergency Communications Board is tasked with ensuring compliance with these new requirements.

The bill also introduces civil liability provisions for government entities that fail to comply with the new mental health crisis response requirements. It establishes that such entities can be held liable for damages resulting from violations, with specific penalties for willful violations. Furthermore, it imposes personal liability on heads of government entities for intentional violations, including civil penalties and potential forfeiture of their elected positions after multiple infractions. The bill aims to ensure that mental health crises are appropriately addressed within the emergency response framework, thereby improving public safety and support for individuals in crisis.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 403.03