AL SJR34

Establishes the first crisis diversion centers in Alabama in fiscal year 2021 to provide behavioral health crisis services.

Centers operate as 24-hour regional hubs offering walk-in access and accepting transfers from emergency departments and law enforcement agencies for crisis care.

Services include short-term admission, medication management, case management, discharge planning, and referrals to ongoing behavioral health care services.

Addresses Alabama's suicide rate exceeding the national average since 1990, with suicide being the third leading cause of death for ages 10-24 and second among veteran deaths.

Aims to divert individuals from emergency rooms and the criminal justice system while maximizing behavioral health workforce and providing cost-effective alternatives to hospital care.