Many times, when an individual has a mental health crisis or is brought to the hospital by law enforcement, there are not enough psychiatric beds available to place the individual.

The House of Representatives approved my legislation that would require the Department of Health and Human Services to work with various stakeholders to develop and maintain a state database that contains information about the number and locations of available beds, and make this database accessible to facilities and providers.

This will allow us to get individuals the services they need in a more efficient and effective manner. House Bill 5439 now waits to be considered by the Senate Committee on Health Policy.

Michigan CARES Hotline

In addition to the psychiatric bed database, I am developing legislation that would create a crisis hotline for individuals who do not know where to turn for help.

We may only have one chance to save someone or get them the help they need. This hotline can refer the individual to local services or a health facility that has available providers to address their concerns. This will point those who have no place left to turn in the right direction and allow them to get the help or services they need.