Bell Introduces Legislation to Collect Data on Interactions Between Law Enforcement and People with Mental Illness

Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Public Safety and Mental Health Reporting Act, legislation aimed at increasing transparency and improving public safety through comprehensive data collection on interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with mental illness. This introduction comes during Mental Health Awareness Month, underscoring the urgent need to better understand and address how mental health intersects with public safety.

"Every day, our communities see the crucial intersection of mental health and law enforcement," said Rep. Bell. "Without comprehensive data, we cannot effectively address these encounters and ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. This legislation is about transparency, accountability, and better-informed policies to protect both citizens and officers."

The Public Safety and Mental Health Reporting Act directs the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to acquire annual data on law enforcement interactions with individuals experiencing mental illness. It establishes a path forward for evidence based qualitative data collection, which will be used strictly for research and statistical analysis, safeguarding individual privacy.

Additionally, the bill mandates the annual publication of this data summary, making the information readily accessible to Congress and the public to promote accountability and foster evidence-based solutions.

Bell has been a consistent advocate for public safety reform. In April, Bell introduced his groundbreaking Justice Forward Agenda, a bold two-part initiative aimed at transforming the criminal legal system by shifting away from punishment and incarceration and toward community-based alternatives that promote prevention, stability, and public safety.

Read the full bill text here.
 

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