Bill > SB36

This bill modifies the existing 9-1-1 Trust Fund legislation to allow for limited funding of the 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Hotline (a national mental health crisis telephone service launched in 2022). Specifically, the bill permits the 9-1-1 Trust Fund to cover costs related to the 9-8-8 hotline that can be shared with 9-1-1 activities, such as software interfaces and joint training programs. The bill carefully restricts these expenditures by prohibiting the fund from being used for costs that exclusively support the 9-8-8 hotline. This nuanced approach allows for some collaborative funding and infrastructure support between 9-1-1 emergency services and the suicide prevention hotline, while preventing the trust fund from being used to fully fund the hotline's operations. The changes are technical in nature, modifying specific language in the existing public safety code to create this limited funding pathway. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing ample time for implementation and preparation by relevant agencies.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0036?ys=2025RS