MS HB342

Requires law enforcement agencies to provide a mental health evaluation within 24 hours of arresting an individual who reasonably appears to have behavioral or mental health issues.

Mandates that if the evaluation reveals a need for behavioral or mental health medication, the law enforcement agency must ensure the individual receives access to medication and transport to a medical facility for appropriate treatment.

Requires every law enforcement agency, city, county, and regional jail or prison to employ at least two persons trained in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training, with minimum 8 hours of annual CIT training required.

Directs the Board on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Training to establish minimum standards for CIT training and approve schools or programs that provide the training.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.