Bill > HB1146

This bill modifies Maryland's Behavioral Health Crisis Response System by replacing existing crisis communication centers with State 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline centers in each jurisdiction. The new centers will be required to coordinate with the national 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Network to provide a comprehensive range of services, including supportive counseling, suicide prevention, crisis intervention, referrals to resources, and direct dispatch to mobile crisis response and stabilization services. The bill mandates that these centers coordinate with local mental health agencies, emergency services, and other local support systems. Additionally, the legislation requires detailed outcome evaluations, including tracking call volumes, answer rates, crisis resolution data, mobile crisis team performance, and crisis stabilization center usage. The evaluations must be collected and publicly reported annually, starting in 2026, with data disaggregated by race, gender, age, and zip code. The goal is to use this data to develop policy recommendations that reduce criminal detention and improve crisis diversion programs. The new system will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to create a more comprehensive and responsive mental health crisis support network across Maryland.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1146?ys=2025RS