Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5853

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/16/24  
Refer
1/17/24  
Report Pass
2/5/24  
Engrossed
2/9/24  
Refer
2/13/24  
Report Pass
2/21/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Refer
2/26/24  
Enrolled
3/6/24  
Chaptered
3/29/24  

Caption

Extending the crisis relief center model to provide behavioral health crisis services for minors.

Impact

If enacted, SB5853 will introduce significant changes to state laws governing mental health services, particularly those tailored for individuals under 18. It aims to improve the availability of behavioral health resources for minors, and may lead to the establishment of specialized centers equipped to handle such crises. This legislative change is expected to enhance the state's commitment to youth mental health and foster a more supportive environment for minors dealing with mental health issues.

Summary

SB5853 proposes to extend the crisis relief center model to provide behavioral health crisis services specifically designed for minors. This initiative aims to create a more accessible and responsive infrastructure for addressing mental health emergencies among youth populations. The bill recognizes the unique challenges faced by minors in crisis and seeks to ensure that appropriate support is readily available to them in moments of need.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB5853 has been positive, reflecting a strong consensus on the necessity of addressing mental health services for minors. Supporters of the bill highlight the urgent need for crisis support and emphasize the importance of timely intervention for youth. There is a shared recognition that investing in mental health resources is crucial for the well-being of minors, and this has contributed to favorable discussions around the bill.

Contention

While the majority support SB5853, there are some points of contention among stakeholders regarding the implementation and funding of these services. Concerns have been raised about the sufficiency of resources and training required for personnel at crisis centers, and whether the state can effectively manage and sustain these new services. Additionally, discussions around the balance of authority between state and local agencies in the provision of these services have surfaced, highlighting the complexity of establishing a cohesive response to youth mental health crises.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6295

Creating a path to recovery for high users of behavioral health crisis and criminal justice systems.

WA SB5120

Revised for 2nd Substitute: Establishing crisis relief centers in Washington state.Original: Establishing 23-hour crisis relief centers in Washington state.

WA SB6251

Revised for 2nd Substitute: Coordinating regional behavioral crisis response services.Original: Coordinating regional behavioral crisis response and suicide prevention services.

WA LB454

Change provisions relating to regional behavioral health authorities and the Behavioral Health Services Fund

WA HB1813

Concerning the reprocurement of medical assistance services, including the realignment of behavioral health crisis services for medicaid enrollees.

WA HB1134

Implementing the 988 behavioral health crisis response and suicide prevention system.

WA HB1272

Extending the program to address complex cases of children in crisis.

WA SB5228

Providing occupational therapy services for persons with behavioral health disorders.

WA SB5710

Providing access to behavioral health services to youth in rural and underserved areas.

WA HB1220

Concerning appropriate response to assaults by individuals in behavioral health crisis.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.