Last year, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted rules that established 988 as the new, nationwide phone number for Americans in crisis. This session, the Washington State Legislature is now considering how to implement the system in Washington.

HB 1477, sponsored by Rep. Tina Orwall (D–Des Moines), is the third bill introduced this year to implement the 988 system. HB 1182 and SB 5209, the other two proposals, failed to make it past cutoff. As a result, HB 1477 now serves as the legislative vehicle for planning how to use the 988 number within the state and how to fund, expand, and enhance the current crisis response system.

Under the bill, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) will collaborate to establish state crisis call center hubs and an enhanced crisis response system in preparation for implementing the 988 hotline. A key task for the HCA will be creating a system for connecting people to the appropriate services whether they dial 911 or 988. Additionally, the HCA must track real-time bed availability for crisis responders and assure that callers receive follow-up services.

The DOH will organize a 988-implementation team to prepare for the transition to the 988 system. The team will consist of members from DOH, HCA, the state enhanced 911 coordination office, crisis response and service delivery organizations, and people who have experienced mental health and substance use disorders. The team will provide guidance to DOH, review training for 988 and 911 operators, and compile a report to the Governor and Legislature by January 1, 2022.

The HCA in partnership with a private entity will convene a Crisis Response Improvement Strategy Committee (CRIS) to develop an integrated behavioral health crisis response system, create strategies and cost estimates, and determine the composition of a statewide behavioral health crisis response oversight board. The CRIS Committee will submit a report to the Governor and Legislature by January 1, 2023.

The 988 system will be funded through a new tax on voice and internet connections starting at 30 cents per connection in October 2021, before stepping up to 50 cents on January 1, 2023.

HB 1477 is now in the Senate Rules Committee awaiting floor action.

Note: If you or anyone you know is experiencing a suicidal crisis or emotional distress, please call (800)273-8255.