Louisiana’s Department of Health Office of Behavioral Health has received a $6.5 million increase in its FY27 budget for the statewide crisis hub supporting the Louisiana Crisis Response System. The office is contracting with local providers in each region to expand access through mobile crisis units and stabilization centers, with a goal of having all components of the crisis response system in every region of the state by year’s end.
Current Gaps and Regional Response
Some areas of the state currently lack most crisis services. Region 5, which covers the Lake Charles area, has no crisis services beyond the 988 line. In the Baton Rouge area, the Bridge Center for Hope serves as a crisis stabilization center, and the region has mobile crisis units for youth, but currently lacks a mobile crisis unit for adults. The department identified a provider to fill this gap, though the provider has not yet begun operating. The New Orleans metropolitan area has a crisis stabilization center. A coalition in the Lafayette-Acadiana area, including local government and health systems Ochsner and FMOL, is working to develop a business plan to stand up a center.
System Design and 988 Integration
According to Dr. Holly Howat, Interim Assistant Secretary for the Office of Behavioral Health, the department wants 988 to serve as the entry point for the full range of behavioral health services. The office has been working to expand the role of 988, aiming for it to be a front door for anyone needing access to behavioral health services, including people with mental health problems, substance use problems, or gambling issues. The Office of Behavioral Health does not provide direct services; instead, it contracts with local providers across the state to deliver mobile crisis response and stabilization services.
Legislative Support
The department is monitoring a pre-filed bill, HB 909, filed by Rep. Annie Spell, that would require commercial insurance to help cover the cost of crisis services.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.knoe.com/2026/03/18/louisiana-department-health-expand-crisis-response-statewide-with-65m-obh-budget-increase/