The bill, S.B. No. 188, aims to enhance behavioral health crisis services in Texas by establishing a framework for crisis centers and mobile crisis outreach teams. It introduces a new subchapter in the Government Code, specifically Subchapter K, which defines key terms such as "crisis center," "mobile crisis outreach team," and "youth crisis outreach team." The bill mandates that crisis centers must contract with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, adhere to best practices, and provide culturally competent care. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of crisis care coordination among various mental health service providers to ensure ongoing support for individuals in crisis.

To fund these initiatives, the bill establishes the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Trust Fund, which will be financed through a service fee imposed on local exchange access lines, wireless connections, and Voice over Internet Protocol services. The fee is intended to cover the costs of operating and maintaining suicide prevention services and will be adjusted periodically as needed. The bill also requires annual reporting on the usage of crisis centers and the revenue generated from the service fee, ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of these critical mental health services. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.