The bill establishes a new chapter in the General Laws titled "Core State Behavioral Health Crisis Services Systems," which includes provisions for the 988 crisis line as part of a comprehensive behavioral health crisis services system. This system will provide 24/7 crisis intervention services and care coordination through designated 988 crisis centers that adhere to the operational, performance, and clinical standards set by the 988 Lifeline program. The bill emphasizes the provision of culturally and linguistically competent care for diverse and at-risk populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, children, veterans, and others.

To fund these initiatives, the bill amends the E-911 Emergency Telephone Number Act to introduce a combined monthly surcharge of fifty cents ($0.50) for both E-911 services and the 988 suicide lifeline. The collected funds will be allocated to two separate restricted accounts, each designated for the operation of the E-911 system and the 988 suicide lifeline, respectively. The bill also establishes an advisory board to provide guidance on the implementation and operation of the 988 services and to enhance collaboration between the 988 and E-911 systems.

The bill outlines the responsibilities of the designated 988 crisis centers, including data reporting, quality improvement activities, and coordination with local mental health and substance use disorder treatment providers. It mandates the state or related public health authority to ensure active collaboration and coordination of service linkages between the designated centers and crisis receiving and stabilization services. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6128: 39-21.1-14