Bill > H1013

This bill establishes Crisis Care Coordination Pilot Programs in Polk and Volusia Counties to improve mental health crisis response and reduce law enforcement involvement in mental health incidents. The programs will place crisis counselors within law enforcement agencies to intervene during acute mental health crises, providing alternative support to traditional law enforcement responses. These counselors will offer services such as crisis intervention, assessment, de-escalation, safety planning, supportive counseling, and assistance in accessing mental health and substance abuse services. The pilot programs will create formal partnerships with mental health providers, hospitals, and local organizations to facilitate timely access to community-based behavioral health services. The Department of Children and Families is required to contract for an independent evaluation of the pilot programs, with a comprehensive report due by January 15, 2029, assessing metrics like law enforcement response times, repeat involuntary examinations, patient engagement in post-crisis services, and program effectiveness. The pilot programs will be subject to specific appropriation, implemented by nationally accredited community mental health centers in partnership with local law enforcement, and are set to expire on June 30, 2029, with the legislation taking effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Human Services Subcommittee (H)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1013