California Assembly Bill AB988

California 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/23
• Refer: 3/2/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23
• Engrossed: 4/17/23
• Refer: 4/18/23
• Refer: 5/3/23
• Report Pass: 6/13/23
• Enrolled: 6/19/23
• Enrolled: 6/29/23
• Enrolled: 9/14/23
• Chaptered: 10/8/23
• Passed: 10/8/23

Caption

Miles Hall Lifeline and Suicide Prevention Act: veteran and military data reporting.

Impact

The legislation intends to strengthen the 988 crisis services by ensuring that essential data regarding the veteran population is collected and analyzed. This amendment is significant as it aligns with the existing federal efforts under the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, which designates 988 as the universal access number for mental health crisis intervention. By focusing on veteran and military data, AB 988 seeks to address gaps in service delivery and improve responsiveness to those with specific needs.

Summary

Assembly Bill 988, known as the Miles Hall Lifeline and Suicide Prevention Act, focuses on enhancing mental health crisis services within California. The bill amends existing law by requiring the annual expenditure and outcomes report submitted by entities accessing funds from the 988 State Suicide and Behavioral Health Crisis Services Fund to include data on individuals who identify as veterans or active military personnel. The intention is to ensure that the unique needs of this demographic are addressed within the crisis services framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 988 appears to be largely positive, with recognition of the importance of mental health support, particularly for veterans. Legislators from both parties have expressed support for enhancing the 988 system, which is seen as a critical lifeline for individuals in crisis. There is an acknowledgment of the need for dedicated resources to help those who have served in the military, contributing to a broader understanding of mental health issues.

Contention

While the bill has generally received support, there may be concerns about the allocation and sufficiency of funding for the 988 services in light of increasing demands. Questions may arise regarding how effectively the bill's provisions can be implemented and whether the intended focus on veterans' data will yield actionable outcomes. Critics could argue about the prioritization of data collection over direct service provision, and how this might impact the resources directed to actual crisis intervention.