The bill seeks to improve the integration and accessibility of certified peer support specialists within Washington State's behavioral health system. It mandates managed care organizations to ensure the availability of certified peer counselors and peer support specialists, particularly for adults and youth recovering from mental health or substance use disorders. The legislation requires these organizations to analyze access to peer services and emphasizes the need for culturally specific services. Additionally, it introduces a certification endorsement process for peer support specialists in areas such as domestic violence and human trafficking, and establishes new training courses to enhance the skills of these specialists.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws to include certified peer support specialists under relevant professional regulations, introduces new definitions, and clarifies the certification process, which will become voluntary starting July 1, 2025. It also emphasizes the importance of supervision for trainees and outlines the responsibilities of the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy in developing training courses. The legislation aims to enhance the behavioral health crisis response system by establishing 988 contact hubs, integrating technology for better coordination, and creating a performance program for crisis teams. Overall, the bill focuses on improving the quality and accessibility of behavioral health services through strategic use of peer support and enhanced training and certification processes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 74.09.871, 18.420.005, 18.420.010, 18.420.020, 18.420.030, 18.420.040, 18.420.050, 18.130.180, 18.420.090, 18.420.800, 43.70.250, 48.43.825, 71.24.585, 71.24.903, 71.24.920, 71.24.922, 71.24.924, 71.40.040, 71.40.090