Mental Health Diversion Program Moving Forward in Travis County

Travis County's plans for a new mental health diversion program are progressing.

According to KVUE, Phase 1 of the proposed new Mental Health Diversion Center and Central Booking Facility is almost complete. Members of the facility working group told commissioners they could start Phase 2 in the next coming weeks.

What's the Goal of the Mental Health Diversion program

The program's goal is to divert people with mental illness accused of minor offenses from being jailed to instead get the psychiatric help they need. Currently, experts say that about 40% of the Travis County Jail population has mental health challenges. Initial mental health assessments for inmates take place in Central Booking, a facility that many county leaders believe is too small.

Learn more about upcoming plans for the mental health diversion program and its potential treatment offerings on KVUE's website.

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