The bill establishes a new chapter in the General Laws titled "CORE STATE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CRISIS SERVICES SYSTEMS," aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of behavioral health crisis services in Rhode Island. It introduces definitions related to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, crisis receiving and stabilization services, and mobile crisis teams. The legislation mandates the creation of designated crisis hotline centers that will operate 24/7 to provide crisis intervention services and coordinate care with local mental health providers and emergency services.

The Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH) is authorized to designate crisis hotline centers, which must meet the 988 Lifeline program requirements and best practices guidelines. These centers will provide data, participate in evaluations, and have the authority to deploy mobile crisis teams and coordinate access to crisis receiving and stabilization services. The bill emphasizes the need for culturally competent care and collaboration with various stakeholders, including mental health and substance use disorder treatment providers.

Starting January 1, 2026, the bill requires all health insurance plans in Rhode Island to cover behavioral health crisis services, including mobile crisis teams and crisis stabilization services, without the need for prior authorization. Insured individuals will only be responsible for in-network cost sharing, and if services are provided by non-participating providers, the health insurer must ensure that the insured pays no more than they would for in-network services.

The bill also introduces a combined E-911 and 988 suicide lifeline surcharge to support the operation of these services and mandates a statewide assessment to ensure equitable access, particularly for underserved communities. The health insurance commissioner is tasked with enforcing compliance with federal coverage requirements and ensuring that treatment limitations align with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.

Statutes affected:
5987: 39-21.1-14