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HB 248

Interjurisdictional law-enforcement agreements; development of behavioral health co-response teams.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Amy Laufer and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia law permits interjurisdictional police-mental health partnerships to deploy behavioral health co-response teams for crisis calls.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0535)
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Bill Summary · HB 248

Legislative bill overview

HB 248 authorizes Virginia law enforcement agencies to enter into agreements with other jurisdictions to develop and operate behavioral health co-response teams—units pairing police officers with mental health professionals to respond to calls involving behavioral health crises. The bill streamlines the legal framework for creating these inter-agency partnerships across county and municipal boundaries.

Why is this important

Behavioral health co-response teams have gained traction nationally as an alternative response model that can reduce unnecessary arrests, improve outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health crises, and lower costs associated with emergency room visits and incarceration. This bill removes potential legal barriers and encourages Virginia jurisdictions to collaborate on these programs, potentially expanding access across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding clarity: The bill doesn't specify which jurisdiction bears costs or how expenses are split, potentially creating budget disputes between participating agencies
  • Scope and liability: Unclear standards for which calls qualify for co-response and who bears liability if incidents escalate, particularly in public safety versus health outcome conflicts
  • Implementation variation: Without statewide standards, programs could operate inconsistently across jurisdictions, creating disparities in service quality and coverage

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

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