Peace River Center Community Mobile Support Team (formerly Sheriff's Outreach Program)
Impact
The passage of HB 2703 reflects the Florida legislature's commitment to enhancing mental health support within communities, particularly through mobile outreach teams that can provide immediate assistance. By funding this project, the bill aims to improve access to mental health resources for individuals in crisis, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for residents. The Community Mobile Support Team will likely enhance the existing services provided by the Peace River Center and other local entities.
Summary
House Bill 2703, titled the Peace River Center Community Mobile Support Team, seeks to provide an appropriation of $850,000 for the fiscal year 2022-2023 to support mental health services through the Peace River Center. This initiative is a continuation of the previously established Sheriff's Outreach Program, which was designed to address community mental health needs effectively. The bill specifically allocates funds from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Children and Families, ensuring a dedicated resource for these services.
Contention
While the bill may garner support for its focus on mental health, there could be discussions regarding the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of mobile support teams compared to traditional mental health services. Stakeholders may express different views on the necessity of such funding, considering it in the context of overall state budget priorities and the ongoing challenges of mental health services delivery in Florida. Additionally, the transition from the Sheriff's Outreach Program to the mobile support team model may also raise questions about implementation and accountability.