Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB309

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25

Caption

Immunity for 911 call centers and dispatchers that transfer callers to the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Impact

If enacted, AB309 would significantly affect the responsibilities and legal protections of 911 call centers and dispatchers throughout the state. By providing immunity against potential lawsuits for their actions, the bill promotes a collaborative approach to crisis intervention, where dispatchers can act swiftly and confidently in connecting individuals with mental health resources without fearing legal liabilities. This change may also lead to a more efficient emergency response system in cases involving mental health crises.

Summary

Assembly Bill 309 (AB309) seeks to provide legal immunity to 911 call centers and dispatchers when they transfer callers to the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The intention of the bill is to encourage the use of mental health crisis resources by alleviating the concerns that dispatchers may have regarding legal repercussions when they connect individuals in crisis with the appropriate support services. This measure is viewed as a proactive step toward enhancing suicide prevention efforts across the state.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB309 may center around the balance between legal protections for dispatchers and the need for accountability in emergency response practices. Some stakeholders might argue that while immunity is beneficial for facilitating support, it could also lead to a lack of oversight regarding the handling of crisis calls. Concerns may arise about ensuring that dispatchers maintain a high standard of care and that individuals in crisis receive the appropriate assistance and follow-up services, regardless of the legal protections in place.