The proposed bill amends Title 40.1 of the General Laws by adding a new chapter titled "988 Call Center and Crisis Outreach and Stabilization Services Center Operations Act." This legislation establishes the operations necessary for a 988 hotline dedicated to suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis management. It defines key terms such as "988 call center," "988 contact," "crisis outreach and stabilization services center," "crisis receiving and stabilization centers," "lifeline administrator," and "operator." The bill outlines the responsibilities of the director of the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH) in designating and fully funding the 988 call center and crisis outreach and stabilization services.

The director is authorized to allocate and expend funds to operate, staff, and maintain the 988 call center, acquire necessary technology, provide training for staff, and conduct public awareness efforts. Funding for the 988 call center and crisis outreach services cannot be used to expand service areas beyond those permitted by federal guidelines or to support state agency operations.

The bill mandates that the 988 call center be operated by a nonprofit entity appointed by the director and approved by the lifeline administrator designated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). BHDDH is required to establish an advisory board to promote compliance with national standards and best practices.

Additionally, BHDDH must collect information from the operator(s) of the 988 call center and crisis outreach and stabilization services center(s) and submit an annual report to the governor and the General Assembly detailing revenue, expenditures, and service performance metrics. The Rhode Island auditor general will conduct annual audits of the 988 call center and crisis outreach and stabilization services center(s) operations and funding.

The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027.