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HB 1485

Public Health - Crisis Response System - Resources for Family Members and Trauma-Informed Care Training (Tiarra's Law)

2026 Regular Session

Maryland establishes mandatory trauma-informed crisis response training and family support resources to improve mental health emergency outcomes statewide.

Referred Finance
0
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Bill Summary · HB 1485

Legislative bill overview

HB 1485, known as "Tiarra's Law," establishes a crisis response system in Maryland that provides resources to family members of individuals in mental health or behavioral crises and mandates trauma-informed care training for crisis responders. The bill aims to improve outcomes during mental health emergencies by equipping both family members and emergency personnel with appropriate tools and knowledge.

Why is this important

Mental health crises often involve family members as first responders, yet they frequently lack guidance on de-escalation and support resources. Trauma-informed training for professional responders can reduce unnecessary arrests, hospitalizations, and injuries during crisis intervention. This approach addresses growing concerns about how traditional law enforcement handles psychiatric emergencies, particularly following high-profile incidents involving individuals in mental distress.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation and costs: Mandatory training programs and resource distribution require significant state funding; debate may center on budget priorities and whether resources should instead expand mental health services directly
  • Training scope and enforcement: Disagreement over what constitutes adequate "trauma-informed care training," who must receive it (police, EMTs, hospital staff, others), and how compliance is monitored
  • Family member liability and boundaries: Questions about what support obligations are placed on family members, liability protections during crisis situations, and whether the system appropriately distinguishes between family support roles and professional crisis intervention

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

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