The bill seeks to enhance mental health and substance use disorder services in Washington state by establishing "crisis relief centers" and updating various definitions within the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It introduces the concept of a "23-hour crisis relief center," which is a community-based facility providing immediate care for individuals in crisis, operating 24/7 and accepting walk-ins without requiring medical clearance. The bill emphasizes the importance of crisis call centers and mobile rapid response teams, while also mandating the development of state minimum standards for these centers by January 1, 2024. Additionally, it repeals outdated provisions related to crisis services and clarifies the roles of behavioral health administrative services organizations in managing community support and crisis stabilization services.

Key amendments include the removal of the definition of "triage facility," which is replaced by "crisis stabilization unit," and the introduction of new definitions such as "therapeutic court personnel." The bill also outlines the responsibilities of designated crisis responders, including the requirement to notify tribal authorities during detentions involving American Indian or Alaska Native individuals. Furthermore, it establishes procedures for competency restoration for defendants in criminal cases, ensuring timely evaluations and treatment options. Overall, the legislation aims to improve the clarity, effectiveness, and accessibility of mental health services, particularly for individuals experiencing acute crises.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71.05.020, 71.05.050, 71.05.150, 71.05.590, 71.34.020, 71.34.351, 71.34.700, 71.05.755, 71.24.890, 10.31.110, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 71.24.647
Substitute Bill: 71.05.020, 71.05.050, 71.05.150, 71.05.590, 71.34.020, 71.34.351, 71.05.755, 71.24.890, 10.31.110, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 71.24.647
Second Substitute: 71.05.020, 71.05.050, 71.05.150, 71.05.590, 71.34.020, 71.34.351, 71.05.755, 71.24.890, 10.31.110, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 71.24.647
Bill as Passed Legislature: 71.05.020, 71.05.050, 71.05.150, 71.05.590, 71.34.020, 71.34.351, 71.05.755, 71.24.890, 10.31.110, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 71.24.647
Session Law: 71.05.020, 71.05.050, 71.05.150, 71.05.590, 71.34.020, 71.34.351, 71.05.755, 71.24.890, 10.31.110, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 71.24.647