HI SB2736

Appropriates funds from general revenues to the Department of Health's Adult Mental Health Division for a statewide CAHOOTS-like crisis outreach program for fiscal year 2022-2023.

Establishes a crisis response model based on CAHOOTS (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets), which was developed by Eugene, Oregon in 1989 using two-person teams of crisis intervention workers and medics trained in de-escalation.

Notes that Eugene's CAHOOTS program handled over 24,000 calls in 2019 (17% of all 911 calls) and saved an estimated $8,500,000 annually in public safety spending and $14,000,000 in emergency medical costs.

Identifies the program's ability to address welfare checks, public assistance requests, and transportation to services, which could integrate with existing crisis phone lines and the national 988 suicide prevention lifeline.

Takes effect on July 1, 2060 (note: specific appropriation amount is blank in the bill text).