Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2088

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/26/24  
Refer
1/29/24  
Engrossed
2/8/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Enrolled
3/1/24  
Chaptered
3/29/24  

Caption

Extending liability protections for responders dispatched from mobile rapid response crisis teams and community-based crisis teams.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2088 would significantly impact state laws regarding mental health crisis intervention. The extension of liability protections could lead to an increase in the availability and effectiveness of crisis response teams across the state, fostering a more robust framework for community mental health support. This could help local authorities and organizations to respond more effectively to mental health emergencies, ultimately enhancing public safety and well-being.

Summary

House Bill 2088 seeks to extend liability protections for responders dispatched from mobile rapid response crisis teams and community-based crisis teams. These teams are essential in addressing mental health emergencies and providing immediate support to individuals in crisis. By offering legal protections to these responders, the bill aims to encourage their active participation in urgent situations, thereby potentially improving outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2088 is generally positive among stakeholders who advocate for enhanced community mental health resources. Supporters believe that the bill is a crucial step in facilitating timely and effective responses to mental health crises. However, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy of training and resources for responders, ensuring that the protections do not inadvertently lead to negligence in care or insufficient handling of complex situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around HB 2088 may include the balance between extending protections for responders and ensuring accountability for their actions. While proponents argue that such protections are necessary to encourage more robust crisis intervention, critics may raise concerns regarding potential misuse of these protections or a lack of oversight, which could compromise the safety and care provided to individuals in crisis situations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1816

Concerning civilian-staffed crisis response teams.

WA HB1809

Professionalizing first responders and co-responders through training and reimbursement for behavioral health emergency response.

WA SB6261

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning theft from first responders.Original: Concerning penalties for the theft and possession of stolen property, including theft from first responders.

WA SB5323

Concerning the penalties for theft and possession of stolen property from first responders.

WA HB1109

First Responders and Emergency Responders - Definition - 9-1-1 Dispatchers Included

WA SB751

First Responders and Emergency Responders – Definition – 9–1–1 Dispatchers Included

WA SB5494

Protecting Washington communities from lead-based paint.

WA HB2311

Supporting first responder wellness and peer support.

WA SB5853

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

WA HB1897

Concerning liability protections for community public safety programs.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.