S.1729 - HELP Act of 2023 (Introduced in Senate on October 18, 2023)

This bill was introduced in Senate on October 18, 2023. This bill focuses on reducing law enforcement interactions with people with disabilities and individuals experiencing human-services or mental health needs. This bill aims to improve nationwide accessibility and coordination of 211 and 988 services. These services are designed to offer information and referrals to all residents and visitors in the United States, particularly for mental health emergencies, homelessness needs, other social and human service needs, and other related purposes.

The primary objectives of this Act include: (1) enhancing the existing 211 services and coordinating them with 988 services nationwide; (2) improving the availability, reliability, and responsiveness of 211 and 988 services, ensuring they offer information and referrals 24/7, 365 days a year; (3) decreasing the use of 911 services for non-law enforcement, fire, or medical emergencies; (4) streamlining access to mental health services and other necessary human services; and (5) reducing arrests, incarcerations, and violent interactions between law enforcement and individuals resulting from improper 911 emergency referrals.