Bill > SB0904

This bill introduces a comprehensive approach to mental health crisis response in Tennessee by requiring law enforcement agencies to establish alternative crisis response units (ACRUs) by January 1, 2026. The bill defines an ACRU as a program where a qualified mental health professional accompanies a full-time police officer on mental health-related service calls, with the mental health professional taking the lead role. The Tennessee peace officer standards and training commission will be responsible for establishing uniform training standards for these units and must provide annual training to police officers on how to effectively support mental health professionals during crisis responses. The bill also mandates that each law enforcement agency develop and implement an ACRU, with most provisions taking effect on January 1, 2026, except for Section 2, which takes effect immediately. This legislation aims to improve mental health crisis interventions by integrating professional mental health expertise directly into law enforcement response protocols, potentially reducing stress and improving outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0904&ga=114