AL HJR69

Establishes the first crisis diversion centers in Alabama in fiscal year 2021 to provide 24-hour behavioral health crisis services as regional hubs for individuals in mental health or substance abuse crises

Alabama's suicide rate has exceeded the national average every year since 1990, with suicide being the third leading cause of death for ages 10-24 and veteran suicides ranking second among the 50 states

Crisis diversion centers will provide walk-in access and accept transfers from emergency departments and law enforcement, offering short-term admission, medication management, case management, discharge planning, and referrals to ongoing behavioral health services

Centers will serve urban, suburban, and rural communities in a cost-effective manner while diverting individuals from emergency rooms and the criminal justice system and maximizing the limited behavioral health workforce

House adopted resolution on March 5, 2020; Senate adopted on May 18, 2020