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HB 5718

AN ACT CONCERNING THE EXPANSION OF THE CRISIS INITIATIVE PILOT PROGRAM THROUGHOUT THE STATE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Ackert and 12 co-sponsors

Connecticut HB 5718 expands the Crisis Initiative Pilot Program statewide to divert mental health crises from police response to specialized services.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Safety and Security
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Bill Summary · HB 5718

Legislative bill overview

HB 5718 proposes expanding Connecticut's Crisis Initiative Pilot Program statewide. The bill would scale up a currently limited program designed to respond to mental health crises and behavioral emergencies without necessarily involving traditional police enforcement.

Why is this important

Crisis response programs have demonstrated potential to reduce unnecessary arrests, emergency room usage, and police resources devoted to non-criminal situations. Expanding such a program could redirect responses to vulnerable populations experiencing mental health episodes toward specialized services rather than criminal justice involvement.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding requirements: Statewide expansion requires significant appropriation; unclear whether the bill adequately funds implementation across all municipalities or shifts costs to local budgets
  • Scope and jurisdiction: Details about which types of crises qualify for non-police response versus traditional 911 dispatch remain unclear; potential conflicts with public safety protocols
  • Program effectiveness data: Limited information on whether the pilot program's outcomes justify full statewide expansion, or whether the bill includes evaluation metrics before rollout

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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