1. (a) The division shall develop a first responder peer support network. The network must include:

   1. (1) peer-to-peer support;
   2. (2) training for peer service coordinators and peers that includes suicide prevention training;
   3. (3) technical assistance for program development and implementation; and
   4. (4) identification, retention, and screening of licensed mental health professionals.

2. (b) As part of the first responder peer support network, the division:

   1. (1) shall ensure first responders have support in both urban and rural jurisdictions to the extent possible through the use of division resources; and
   2. (2) may establish a program to connect first responders with clinical resources at no cost to the first responders.
3. (c) The division shall solicit and ensure that specialized training is provided to persons who are peers and who want to provide peer-to-peer support and other peer-to-peer services under the network.

Added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 708 (H.B. 35), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2025.