This legislation seeks to enhance community policing programs by focusing on de-escalation and improved outcomes for non-violent individuals facing crises related to mental health, poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorders. Its primary purpose is to foster collaborative partnerships that connect these individuals with essential mental health services and community resources. By delivering appropriate treatment and support, the bill aims to produce better results for both communities and law enforcement officers. To achieve these goals, the bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, expanding the authorized uses of COPS funds. It specifically allows funding for three new types of programs: mobile crisis teams , co-responder programs , and case management and outreach teams . These programs are designed to provide more effective and compassionate responses to individuals in crisis. Mobile crisis teams would hire mental health professionals and paramedics to respond to 911 calls or direct requests, stabilize encounters, and secure necessary mental health services. Co-responder programs would pair trained law enforcement officers with behavioral health clinicians or paramedics to de-escalate situations and connect individuals to appropriate services. Finally, case management and outreach teams would follow up with individuals post-crisis, ensuring they connect with resources, adhere to treatment plans, and ultimately reduce their frequent reliance on emergency services.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
SMART Community Policing Act
USA119th CongressS-4575| Senate
| Updated: 5/19/2026
This legislation seeks to enhance community policing programs by focusing on de-escalation and improved outcomes for non-violent individuals facing crises related to mental health, poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorders. Its primary purpose is to foster collaborative partnerships that connect these individuals with essential mental health services and community resources. By delivering appropriate treatment and support, the bill aims to produce better results for both communities and law enforcement officers. To achieve these goals, the bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, expanding the authorized uses of COPS funds. It specifically allows funding for three new types of programs: mobile crisis teams , co-responder programs , and case management and outreach teams . These programs are designed to provide more effective and compassionate responses to individuals in crisis. Mobile crisis teams would hire mental health professionals and paramedics to respond to 911 calls or direct requests, stabilize encounters, and secure necessary mental health services. Co-responder programs would pair trained law enforcement officers with behavioral health clinicians or paramedics to de-escalate situations and connect individuals to appropriate services. Finally, case management and outreach teams would follow up with individuals post-crisis, ensuring they connect with resources, adhere to treatment plans, and ultimately reduce their frequent reliance on emergency services.