Sec. 6. (a) The division has primary oversight over suicide prevention and crisis services activities and essential coordination with designated 9-8-8 crisis response centers. The division shall work with the 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline and the veteran crisis line networks for the purpose of ensuring consistency of public messaging concerning 9-8-8 services.

     (b) Not later than July 1, 2022, the division may designate at least one (1) 9-8-8 crisis response center in Indiana to coordinate crisis intervention services and crisis care coordination to individuals accessing the 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline from anywhere in Indiana twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week.

     (c) In order to be designated by the division under subsection (b), a 9-8-8 crisis response center must meet the following:

(1) Have an active agreement with the administrator of the 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline for participation within the network.

(2) Comply with the 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline requirements and best practice guidelines for operational and clinical standards.

(3) Use technology, including chat and texting that is interoperable between and across crisis and emergency response systems used throughout Indiana to ensure cohesive and coordinated crisis care.

As added by P.L.207-2021, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.162-2023, SEC.15.