HB 2478 Summary

• Permits the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to establish a law enforcement behavioral health emergency dispatch system if requested in two or more regional emergency medical service plans.

• Amends 43A O.S. 2011, Section 5-421 regarding emergency service patrols that assist persons believed to be mentally ill in public places.

• Requires participating state and local agencies to coordinate and cooperate with the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

• Mandates emergency service patrols maintain reliable data on services provided and requires state agencies to provide information upon request to assess patrol effectiveness.

• Effective date: November 1, 2012.