OLYMPIA – A measure designed to enhance crisis response services across the state has passed the House of Representatives today. House Bill 1811, introduced by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), integrates behavioral health professionals with traditional first responders.
The bill defines “co-response” as a partnership between first responders and human services professionals, ensuring that teams of trained clinicians, social workers, and peer support specialists are involved in emergency situations. This approach seeks to reduce reliance on law enforcement and emergency rooms, allowing for immediate care and de-escalation of crises.
Key provisions include extending peer support protections to those involved in co-response, preventing them from being compelled to testify about their communications with recipients of peer support. Additionally, the bill adds co-response team members to the “frontline employees” definition.
Rep. Salahuddin emphasized the bill’s potential to improve outcomes for individuals in behavioral health crises, stating, “This ensures people get the right response at the right time.” He further explained that HB 1811 is focused on delivering “more effective care and enhancing our overall crisis response system.”
House Bill 1811 awaits further consideration in the Senate. Learn more by watching House consideration below:
