Bill > H2529

This bill establishes the Equitable Approaches to Public Health grant program, administered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, to create non-law-enforcement community-based emergency response alternatives. The program will provide competitive grants to partnerships consisting of local government units, community-based organizations, and potentially mental health or higher education institutions to develop systems that protect residents' well-being, prevent violence, and de-escalate situations without police intervention. A diverse board of community stakeholders will make grant decisions, including representatives from social work, mental health, and community organizations. Grant recipients must submit detailed annual reports on their activities, including the number of individuals served, outcomes, emergency call diversions, and community impact. The bill requires an independent evaluation of the program's effectiveness, focusing on metrics like emergency room visits, law enforcement involvement in mental health crises, and other relevant health and community outcomes. Critically, no grant funds can be provided directly to law enforcement agencies. By October 1, 2028, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services must complete a comprehensive evaluation of the program and submit a report to the legislature with findings and recommended next steps, aiming to create more humane and effective emergency response strategies.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2529