Yes, Michigan has laws and is developing programs, like Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs) and Co-Responder Teams (CRTs), that enable mental health experts to respond to crises, often diverting from or working with police, focusing on de-escalation and health-based solutions, aligning with federal guidance for health-focused responses instead of law enforcement-only ones. Key Michigan laws like MCL 333.20967 give authority to health professionals at emergencies, while specific programs are expanding, supported by state leaders.
Key Michigan Laws & Concepts:
MCL 333.20967 (Emergency Patient Management): Gives licensed health professionals authority to manage patients at an emergency scene, similar to EMS, allowing for health-led intervention.
MCL 330.1712 & 330.1748 (Mental Health Code): Focus on person-centered care, confidentiality, and rights, underpinning how services are delivered, including crisis support.
Emerging Models & Programs:
Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs): Community-based mental health professionals respond to crises, often without police initially, though police can be called if needed.
Co-Responder Teams (CRTs): Pair law enforcement with clinicians to respond together, blending law enforcement presence with mental health expertise.
988 & MiCAL: Michigan's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (MiCAL) routes calls to trained crisis counselors, providing immediate support and diverting some calls from 911 dispatch.
Support for Alternatives:
A 2024 University of Michigan survey showed most Michigan law enforcement leaders support alternative response models, indicating a push for these health-based approaches.
Federal Context:
Federal guidance emphasizes that people with behavioral health needs deserve a health response, not just a law enforcement one, pushing states to invest in non-police crisis services.