Behavioral Health Crisis Response Grant Program - Funding

SB 599 requires Maryland's Governor to include specific annual funding amounts in the state budget for the Behavioral Health Crisis Response Grant Program. The bill mandates $3 million for fiscal year 2020, $4 million for 2021, and $5 million annually from 2022 through 2029. This funding directly supports local jurisdictions in establishing and expanding community-based behavioral health crisis response systems. At least one-third of the annual funds must be used for competitive grants to create or enhance mobile crisis teams, which provide immediate, on-site support for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies. The program aims to strengthen community crisis response infrastructure through mandatory state funding.