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Bill

Bill

SB 513

Comprehensive mental health, substance abuse, & developmt. disability crisis services; written plan.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Creigh Deeds

Virginia must create a comprehensive crisis services plan coordinating mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disability emergency responses across state agencies.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 823 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · SB 513

Legislative bill overview

SB 513 requires Virginia to develop a comprehensive written plan addressing crisis services for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies, substance abuse crises, and developmental disability-related crises. The bill mandates coordination across state agencies and establishes frameworks for emergency response systems, potentially including alternatives to traditional law enforcement involvement.

Why is this important

Mental health and substance abuse crises currently strain emergency services and often result in inappropriate criminal justice responses. A coordinated state plan could improve outcomes, reduce unnecessary incarceration, and potentially redirect individuals toward treatment rather than the criminal system. This addresses a documented gap in Virginia's crisis infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: The fiscal impact statement suggests expenses for planning, training, and service expansion that may burden state and local budgets
  • Law enforcement coordination: Questions about how crisis response teams interact with police, whether they replace or supplement traditional emergency responses, and training requirements
  • Service disparities: Risk that urban areas receive better crisis infrastructure than rural communities, creating geographic inequities in access to alternatives to incarceration

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

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