Madison Reporter

The criminal justice system has restrictive settings, which often leads to mental and behavioral health challenges in some, and several crisis centers are now being built across the country to help such people. 

Rep. Shelia Stubbs tweeted in support of Joe Parisi's newly announced plan for a Crisis Triage Center in the Madison area.

"Today I was proud to stand with @DaneCoJoe in support of a new 24-hour crisis triage center! This $10 million effort will connect those in need with resources, and divert people away from our criminal justice system," Stubbs tweeted.

County Executive Joe Parisi announced on Sept. 27 that his budget includes a proposal for $10 million to go to a new Crisis Triage Center in Madison. It is the largest item in Parisi's budget for 2022. The center would assist individuals who either come in on their own or by referral from law enforcement or community partners.

A plan for implementation is in the works. The behavioral mental health initiatives already in place in the area will be expanded under the supervision of a division of the county government. Parisi's plan for the new center includes an additional $1 million set aside for once the center is open.

Parisi’s budget will be introduced on Oct. 1 and likely finalized by the end of November. Parisi said the county is working on additional measures to improve police interactions, including providing officers with more resources related to mental health.