Department of Health Services Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge’s Statement about Wisconsin Act 249, that expands emergency detention and urgent crisis care facilities

“One of our top priorities is access to mental health services for all Wisconsinites who need them. Act 249 will help us address a significant gap in Wisconsin’s system of care and ensure people experiencing mental health emergencies get the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

This bill will help us transform the way we care for our state’s most vulnerable using the Crisis Now model of someone to contact, someone to respond, and a safe place to get help.

Crisis urgent care and observation facilities will provide staff and services to de-escalate and treat young people and adults experiencing a mental health crisis without long wait times or family having to travel for hours. And when law enforcement is involved, they no longer need to decide between an emergency room or jail. This no wrong door approach provides appropriate care without adding additional stress to the patient and that patient’s family and community.

Act 249 is the result of significant and sustained collaboration with our partners and the legislature, and we are excited to continue to move the Crisis Now model forward to improve mental health treatment and care for all Wisconsinites.”