Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Bolster 988 Mental Health Crisis Response

September 3, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the 988 Crisis Response Act , bipartisan legislation to fund professional mobile crisis response teams (MCRTs) dispatched by 9-8-8 Lifeline operators and establish Medicaid reimbursement for crisis call centers and resources. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Representatives Adam Smith (WA-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and David Valadao (CA-22) as part of the larger 988 Implementation Act . “As a pediatrician, I have seen firsthand how severe our youth and adult mental health crisis has become,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “It is so important that when our family members, loved ones, and neighbors are in crisis, they can get immediate help. Mobile crisis response teams, with licensed counselors, physicians, crisis workers, and paramedics, dispatched by 988 save lives, deescalate dangerous situations, and keep us all safe. We need to make sure these teams are always available for every American as a reliable resource when our community members need help.” BACKGROUND: The 988 Crisis Response Act provides sustainable funding streams for mobile crisis response teams (MCRTs) and other elements of the crisis care continuum. This includes Medicaid reimbursement for crisis call centers, MCRTs, and crisis receiving and stabilization facilities, in line with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) recommendation that insurers cover all three pillars of the crisis care continuum. The bill also provides grant funding to build MCRT capacity. Specifically, this bill: Authorizes $100 million for the Mental Health Crisis Response Partnership program for communities to create or enhance existing mobile crisis response teams, composed of licensed counselors, clinical social workers, physicians, paramedics, crisis workers, and/or peers. Teams must respond to people in crisis and provide immediate stabilization and referral to behavioral health services and supports. Makes permanent the 85% federal matching assistance percentage (FMAP) for mobile crisis response teams and expands the FMAP to crisis call centers and crisis stabilizing and receiving facilities, ensuring unambiguous Medicaid financing for all three pillars of the crisis care continuum. “When someone has a mental health crisis, they deserve timely, comprehensive treatment — not just a trip to an overcrowded emergency room,” said Congressman Smith. "I've witnessed the important work of our mobile crisis response teams and broader behavioral health workforce in King County, and I appreciate their dedication to providing critical care to our community's most vulnerable. This bill will provide the reliable funding needed to strengthen these teams and help expand this model of care nationwide. Everyone deserves the right help, in the right setting, at the right time. I'm proud to join my colleagues in this effort.” “A mental health crisis does not wait for business hours, and a family asking for help should never be left wondering whether anyone will come,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. “For years, I have worked with families, first responders, providers, and advocates who understand that the right intervention at the right moment can change the course of a life. The 988 Lifeline gave Americans a number to call; now we must make certain there is a strong system of care ready to answer that call. Our bipartisan 988 Crisis Response Act will help communities put trained professionals on the ground, strengthen crisis stabilization services, and ensure that when someone reaches out in their most vulnerable hour, help is not merely promised—it arrives.” “Across the Central Valley, mobile crisis response teams work alongside law enforcement to respond to individuals in crisis, deescalate difficult situations, and connect people with vital mental health services,” said Congressman Valadao. “I know how deeply personal and impactful this work is for our community, which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the 988 Crisis Response Act. This bipartisan bill will strengthen federal support for mobile crisis response teams and the broader crisis care continuum, helping ensure these critical services remain available to those who need them most.” If you or a loved one needs help, call or text 988. ### Issues : Congress Health