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A 185

Establishes peer crisis diversion residences

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Cunningham

Bill Summary: A 185 - Establishes Peer Crisis Diversion Residences OverviewThis bill, A 185, aims to establish a network of peer crisis diversion residences across the state. The p

REFERRED TO MENTAL HEALTH
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Bill Summary · A 185

Bill Summary: A 185 - Establishes Peer Crisis Diversion Residences

Overview

This bill, A 185, aims to establish a network of peer crisis diversion residences across the state. The primary goal is to provide an alternative to traditional emergency rooms or inpatient psychiatric facilities for individuals experiencing mental health crises.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the Department of Mental Health to oversee the development and implementation of peer crisis diversion residences.
  • Specifies that these residences will be operated by peer support specialists - individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges.
  • Mandates that the residences offer 24/7 crisis intervention, peer support, and connection to ongoing mental health services.
  • Allocates $20 million in initial funding to establish at least 10 pilot residences in high-need communities.
  • Directs the Department to establish certification standards, staffing requirements, and quality assurance measures for the residences.
  • Requires regular reporting to the legislature on the program's utilization, outcomes, and any recommended policy changes.

Affected Stakeholders

  • Individuals experiencing mental health crises, who will have an alternative to emergency rooms or inpatient psychiatric care.
  • Mental health professionals and peer support specialists, who will staff and operate the new residences.
  • Healthcare providers, who may see reduced emergency department visits and psychiatric hospitalizations as a result of this program.
  • State and local governments, who will oversee the program's implementation and monitor its impacts on the mental healthcare system.

Timeline and Next Steps

A 185 was introduced on January 8, 2025 and has been referred to the Mental Health committee for further consideration. If passed, the Department of Mental Health would have 6 months to establish the initial certification standards and begin the process of identifying pilot locations and awarding grants. The first peer crisis diversion residences are expected to open within 12-18 months of the bill's enactment.

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

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