Michigan will create a statewide mental health hotline under legislation signed by Governor Whitmer. The telephone referral system will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and refer people experiencing a mental health crisis to service providers. Representative Mary Whiteford of Casco Township sponsored the bill.
“I really want to make sure that what we have is very innovative and adaptable as new technology comes along so we can truly be there when people are in need,” said Whiteford.
A spending law approved in 2018 included $3 million to develop, operate and maintain a hotline pilot program. The new law, which was enacted Monday and takes effect in three months, will expand that program statewide.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
