Bill > HJR168

This Joint Resolution establishes the Study Commission on the 9-8-8 Comprehensive Behavioral Health Crisis Communication System to prepare for the national implementation of the 9-8-8 suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, which will replace the current 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) number on July 16, 2022. The commission, comprised of various state officials, agency representatives, and behavioral health advocates, will study and make recommendations on how to ensure statewide coverage, invest in technology, secure funding for call centers and crisis services, improve call center capacity, comply with national standards, and establish local resource linkages and follow-up services to provide effective behavioral health crisis support to all Alabamians. The commission is required to submit its findings and recommendations to the state legislature by January 11, 2022, and will be dissolved thereafter.