The proposed bill establishes the "988 Call Center and BH Link Operations Act" within Title 40.1 of the General Laws, focusing on the creation and funding of a 988 crisis hotline for suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis intervention in Rhode Island. It mandates the establishment of a designated, non-governmental 988 call center responsible for responding to 988 contacts, which include calls, texts, and chats. The bill outlines definitions for key terms, such as "988 call center," "988 contact," "BH Link," "crisis receiving and stabilization centers," and "lifeline administrator," and emphasizes the need for a reliable funding source to support the call center and related services.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the 988 call center will be operated by a nonprofit entity appointed by the General Assembly, ensuring its independence from oversight, direction, or operational control by any sole state agency. The operator may establish an advisory board to promote compliance with national standards and best practices. The bill requires the operator to submit annual reports detailing revenue, expenditures, and service performance metrics, while also mandating an annual audit by the Rhode Island auditor general. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, and aims to enhance the state's capacity to provide immediate support for individuals in crisis.