SMART Community Policing Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Crow, Jason [D-CO-6]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 19, 2026
Bottom line
The SMART Community Policing Act expands federal grant eligibility for law enforcement agencies to fund specialized teams that integrate mental health professionals and paramedics into crisis response and follow-up care.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to expand the authorized uses of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant funds. Specifically, it allows these funds to be used by law enforcement agencies to establish or expand mobile crisis team programs, co-responder programs, and case management and outreach teams, all focused on improving responses to individuals experiencing mental or behavioral health crises, poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorders. The aim is to de-escalate interactions, connect individuals with appropriate services, and reduce repeat emergency service use.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill provides essential flexibility and resources for local law enforcement to address the complex challenges of mental health crises and substance use disorders within their communities. They contend that by funding specialized teams, the bill will lead to safer outcomes for individuals in crisis, reduce the burden on traditional policing, and foster stronger community partnerships by connecting vulnerable populations with appropriate care rather than solely relying on arrest or emergency room visits.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that while the intent is positive, expanding the scope of policing to include mental health response, even with clinicians, may not be the most effective or appropriate solution. Some critics contend that mental health and social services should be entirely separate from law enforcement to avoid potential criminalization of health issues and to ensure trust with vulnerable populations. They may advocate for direct funding to community-based mental health organizations instead of channeling it through police grants.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy read by any interested party.
Section 3(26)
Mobile Crisis Team Program Authorization
This provision authorizes the use of COPS funds to establish or expand mobile crisis team programs. These teams would hire skilled mental health professionals and paramedics to respond to certain 911 calls at the request of law enforcement, or directly to community members. Their role is to stabilize encounters, assume responsibility for securing mental health services, and facilitate further evaluation and treatment for individuals in crisis. The funds can also be used for training law enforcement officers partnering with these professionals and for mobile units.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that mobile crisis teams are a proven model for de-escalating situations and providing appropriate care, reducing the likelihood of arrest or unnecessary hospitalization for individuals in crisis. They believe this provision will empower communities to implement best practices in crisis intervention.
Critics contend
Critics may argue that while beneficial, these teams still operate within a law enforcement framework, which might deter some individuals from seeking help due to mistrust. They might prefer entirely civilian-led crisis response models funded independently of police departments.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the need for rapid crisis response with the desire for clinically appropriate interventions. The tension lies in integrating mental health services within a law enforcement structure versus creating entirely separate, non-police responses.
Section 3(27)
Co-responder Program Authorization
This provision authorizes COPS funds for co-responder programs. These programs involve pairing a trained law enforcement officer with a behavioral health clinician or paramedic. Their joint role is to de-escalate situations involving mental health crises, connect individuals with mental illness to appropriate services, and provide other effective responses. The funds can also be used to hire additional personnel, including law enforcement officers and case managers, to support these programs.
Section 3(28)
Case Management and Outreach Team Authorization
This provision authorizes COPS funds for establishing or expanding case management and outreach teams. These teams are designed to follow up with individuals who have experienced a mental or behavioral health crisis. Their purpose is to connect these individuals with ongoing mental health services and community resources, help them adhere to treatment plans, and meet other responsibilities like work or school. They also develop specific solutions for individuals who frequently use emergency services to reduce repeat interactions with law enforcement or crisis teams. These teams can be part of a mobile crisis team, a co-responder program, or operate independently.