SB 13-266 Summary

• State Department of Human Services must issue a statewide request for proposals by September 1, 2013, to create a coordinated behavioral health crisis response system with five components: 24-hour telephone crisis service, walk-in crisis services and stabilization units, mobile crisis services, residential and respite crisis services, and a public information campaign.

• Crisis response system must be based on cultural competence, peer support, evidence-based practices, strong community relationships, integration with existing systems, and outreach through school-based clinics.

• State Department shall establish a committee of interested stakeholders including representation from the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing to review proposals and award contracts by January 1, 2014.

• Proposals will be evaluated on ability to demonstrate innovation, coordinate with community mental health organizations, serve individuals regardless of ability to pay, utilize peer supports, serve children and adolescents, and understand differences between mental health and substance use disorder crises.

• Appropriates $19,792,028 and 0.9 FTE for fiscal year 2013-2014, including $17,672,420 for stabilization units and mobile crisis response, $2,046,675 for telephone hotlines, and $72,933 for administration.