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 to provide 24/7 crisis intervention services and emphasizes the need for culturally and linguistically competent care.

The director of the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH) is authorized to oversee the implementation of the 988 Lifeline and coordinate with local mental health services. Starting January 1, 2026, all health insurance plans in Rhode Island are required 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 rates, even if services are provided by non-participating providers. The health insurance commissioner is tasked with ensuring compliance with federal emergency services coverage requirements and verifying that treatment limitations align with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.

The bill also mandates local assessments to identify system needs and develop strategic plans for culturally competent services. Additionally, it introduces a combined E-911 and 988 suicide lifeline surcharge to fund these initiatives.

Statutes affected:
5987: 39-21.1-14