Resources

Many communities are reimagining their approach to public safety by investing in community responder programs that position health professionals and community members trained in crisis response as first responders. As local governments work to establish and maintain these programs, one strategy they can consider is passing local legislation that offers dedicated funding and support.

Community responder programs are gaining popularity across the country. These programs, which position health professionals and staff trained in crisis response as first responders, are often used to de-escalate behavioral health crises or respond to social disturbances. While they are typically formed at the county or local level, state-level actions, such as legislation and executive orders, can be useful tools to jumpstart community responder programs. Here are three ways that state leaders can support such programs.

In response to growing calls for police reform in New Jersey, particularly following the shootings of Najee Seabrooks and Andrew Washington in March and August 2023, a coalition of law enforcement officials, mental health professionals, and community advocates partnered to explore public safety response alternatives. The result was groundbreaking, statewide legislation signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy. Here are three takeaways states can learn from New Jersey’s legislative efforts as they work to create their own.