Bill
Bill > S0429
RI S0429
RI S0429Establishes a statewide standalone children's mobile response and stabilization services to address the behavioral health needs of children and youth ages 2 to 21. DCYF to oversee implementation of the program.
summary
Introduced
02/26/2025
02/26/2025
In Committee
02/26/2025
02/26/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/20/2025
06/20/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This act would appropriate six million dollars ($6,000,000) to establish a statewide standalone children's mobile response and stabilization services to address the behavioral health needs of children and youth ages two (2) to twenty-one (21). This act would also provide that the state allocate general revenue funds to provide services not funded by Medicaid. The department of children, youth and families would oversee implementation of the program and promulgate rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter. This act would take effect upon passage.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a statewide Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) program designed to provide comprehensive behavioral health support for children and youth ages 2 to 21. The program will offer 24/7 crisis intervention services with a one-hour response time, accessible without formal referrals, and delivered in natural environments like homes and schools. MRSS aims to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency room visits by providing immediate de-escalation and stabilization services using culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and developmentally appropriate approaches. The bill allocates $6 million in state funding and seeks to secure Medicaid reimbursement through a state plan amendment, ensuring the services meet federal Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) standards. Crisis response teams will include licensed clinicians, peer support specialists, and family navigators who will help stabilize children's conditions, develop transition plans, and connect families to ongoing behavioral healthcare and community resources. The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) will oversee program implementation, monitor service utilization and outcomes, and provide annual reports to the state legislature, with the goal of improving behavioral health support for children and reducing psychiatric hospitalizations.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance
Sponsors (7)
Jacob Bissaillon (D)*,
John Burke (D),
Alana DiMario (D),
Lou DiPalma (D),
Val Lawson (D),
Mark McKenney (D),
Melissa Murray (D),
Last Action
Committee recommended measure be held for further study (on 06/03/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://status.rilegislature.gov/ |
| BillText | https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/SenateText25/S0429.pdf |
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