H.B. 2698 Summary

• Requires the Hawaii Department of Health to establish or contract with behavioral health crisis centers in each county to provide intervention and stabilization services for persons experiencing mental illness or substance use disorder crises.

• Each crisis center must operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, accept all walk-ins and referrals regardless of ability to pay, and include a dedicated first responder drop-off area.

• Crisis centers must be staffed with multidisciplinary teams including psychiatrists or advanced practice registered nurses, nurses, licensed clinicians, and peer counselors with lived experience.

• Centers shall not require medical clearance before admission but must assess and support clients' medical stability and have capacity to provide care for minor physical health challenges.

• Appropriates general fund revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 to establish or contract with the crisis centers (specific amount blank in text); takes effect upon approval with appropriation effective July 1, 2024.