State Rep. Mary Whiteford’s plan to establish a hotline connecting individuals experiencing a mental health crisis with the support they need was signed into law today.
Once established, the hotline will be available 24 hours a day and provide access to any Michigan resident in need.
Whiteford, a registered nurse and chair of the House Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, said she was inspired by the many individuals she heard from during the 2018 statewide House C.A.R.E.S. Task Force tour and by her own experience as an emergency room nurse.
“We must ensure everyone knows they have somewhere to turn when experiencing a mental health crisis, regardless of their insurance coverage,” said Whiteford, of Casco Township. “The goal is to keep patients out of the emergency room, which really isn’t properly equipped to handle mental health concerns quickly and efficiently. Operators at the Michigan Crisis and Access Line will provide information to connect every Michigan resident with the help they need.”
The legislation is now Public Act 12 of 2020.
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