SB53 would allow EMTs and firefighters to receive training specifically to respond to mental health calls. Then, agencies throughout the state could form teams made up of those trained EMTs, who would be dedicated specifically to mental health emergencies.
Under the bill, mental health EMT teams would not take on the role of therapists. Instead, they would triage people and help them find the resources they need, bill sponsor Sen. Daniel Thatcher, R-West Valley City, has said.
Cities and agencies would also not be required to hire mental-health trained EMTs under the bill, he said.
As the Senate debated the bill on Thursday, Sen. Kathleen Riebe, D-Cottonwood Heights, questioned whether it would take resources away from the state s Mobile Crisis Outreach Teams, which include licensed mental health professionals.
‘Utah Politics’ podcast: Why one lawmaker wants to impeach Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes
Rep. Andrew Stoddard says an investigation is the only way to get details on Reyes’ post-election efforts on behalf of Trump.
(Rick Bowmer | AP file photo) Rep. Andrew Stoddard, D-Sandy, speaks to members of the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Standing Committee, Feb. 20, 2019, in Salt Lake City. Stoddard says he s filing a resolution to impeach Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes this year in order to clear the way for an investigation of his efforts to overturn the election defeat of former President Donald Trump.
| Jan. 28, 2021, 1:06 p.m.
A Utah state senator wants to bring safety back to Utah vehicles due to recent statistics from Utah Highway Patrol and overall concern for public safety.
Lawmakers are considering a task force to look at redesigning the state flag for Utah, though not everyone thinks it’s something that needs to be done.