Congressman Valadao Supports Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen 988 Mental Health Crisis Response

WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Kim Schrier (WA-08), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Adam Smith (WA-09) to introduce the 988 Crisis Response Act . This bipartisan legislation would help fund professional mobile crisis response teams (MCRTs) dispatched by 9-8-8 Lifeline operators and establish Medicaid reimbursement for crisis call centers and resources. “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.” “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.” “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. “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.” “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.” The 988 Crisis Response Act would: Authorize $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. Make permanent the 85% federal matching assistance percentage (FMAP) for mobile crisis response teams and expand the FMAP to crisis call centers and crisis stabilizing and receiving facilities, ensuring Medicaid financing for all three pillars of the crisis care continuum. If you or a loved one needs help, please call or text 988. Read the full bill here . ###