The New Hampshire Senate Health and Human Services Committee convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss House Bill 597, which aims to establish a designated behavioral health access point within the enhanced 911 system. The bill was presented by Representative Bill Boyd, who emphasized its unanimous support from the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee and its bipartisan backing.

During the hearing, Boyd highlighted the collaboration with Mark Doyle, the director of the 911 system, and noted that the bill reflects the evolving relationship between the 911 service and the newly established 988 mental health crisis line. Assistant Director Tim Scott provided additional insights, explaining that the bill updates existing laws to facilitate the transfer of calls from 911 to 988 when appropriate, enhancing the response to mental health emergencies.

Committee members raised questions regarding the integration of 911 and 988 services. Scott clarified that the two systems serve different purposes, with 911 focused on life-threatening emergencies and 988 designed for mental health support. He noted that 988 calls often require longer conversations to resolve issues, contrasting with the rapid triage approach of 911.

Holly Stevens, Director of Public Policy for NAMI New Hampshire, spoke in favor of the bill, underscoring the importance of maintaining the distinct functions of both systems. She pointed out that many individuals still call 911 during mental health crises due to a lack of awareness about 988, despite efforts to promote the latter service. Stevens emphasized that the bill would help free up 911 resources for physical health emergencies while ensuring that mental health calls are handled by trained professionals.

The committee concluded the hearing with a clear understanding of the bill's intent to codify existing practices and improve the overall response to mental health crises in New Hampshire. Further discussions and potential votes on the bill are anticipated in upcoming sessions.