Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a comprehensive package of bills during the session as Virginia remains committed to its “Get the Rest, Get the Rest Now” behavioral health transformation plan, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
These efforts include strengthening behavioral health workforces and expanding support for individuals in crisis.
“As Attorney General, I have heard firsthand about the challenges law enforcement officers face as they strive to fulfill their duty to protect their communities while ensuring individuals experiencing a mental health crisis receive the care they need,” Attorney General Jason Miyares said in a separate news release from the governor’s office. “Thanks to the Governor’s initiative, ‘Right Help, Right Now,’ we are making great strides in reducing these burdens and strengthening existing processes for responding to mental health crises outside of the criminal justice process.”
In total, Governor Youngkin signed 10 bills that will strengthen behavioral health services for Virginians.
“This joint effort is a testament to Virginia’s unwavering dedication to innovation in mental health services and access,” Youngkin said in a news release. “By providing increased support to mental health professionals and a robust commitment to timely crisis intervention, we are addressing the critical needs of Virginians and raising the bar on standards of care across the state.”
Behavioral health issues have been steadily increasing, and “it is critical that Virginians find ways to support one another,” First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin said in a news release. “I am proud of this bipartisan coalition that has come together to create a state that prioritizes the health and well-being of our citizens.”
Among the bills that passed were Senate Bills 403 and 34, which would bolster behavioral health workforce by adding behavioral health technicians and assistants under the oversight of the Counseling Commission. The bill also allows certain hospitals to hire personnel trained to evaluate temporary detention orders, according to a news release.
“These new laws are an important step in addressing the mental health crisis in our state,” Health and Human Services Secretary John Littell said in a news release. “By empowering behavioral health professionals and improving our crisis response system, we are paving the way for a more responsive and resilient mental health infrastructure – ensuring all Virginians have access to the support they need, when they need it.”
Advances in crisis intervention are also detailed in House Bills 823, 1336, 601, and 1242, and Senate Bills 497, 568, 543, and 546.
“New legislation was enacted this year focusing on behavioral health technicians who provide direct patient care, services to transport patients to treatment facilities, crisis support services and psychiatric evaluation services – all positive steps for Virginia that will benefit patients, their families and health care providers,” Sean T. Connaughton, president and CEO of the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association, said in a news release.
