The Cole County Prosecutor’s Office says no charges will be filed against a state lawmaker who made a false report to test Missouri’s 988 Crisis Lifeline.
Rep. Tricia Byrnes, R-Wentzville, placed a text to the 988 crisis hotline on February 20, claiming to have a gun to her head. Her false report led to law enforcement responding to the Missouri Capitol and then opening an investigation into her actions.
A news release from Byrnes’ office stated she was testing the automated responses that she said are delaying access to live crisis counselors, potentially putting people in danger. Byrnes was researching the texting functions of the system for her bill that aims to improve the 988 hotline.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the intentional misuse of a hotline or emergency line should never be done under any circumstance. I have tremendous respect for our law enforcement and first responders, and I want to make clear that I am appreciative and supportive of those who run toward unknown danger every day to keep us safe including those who did so on February 20th. My issue lies with the 988 Chatbot that continues to inexplicably endanger lives across Missouri,” said Byrnes.
The Missouri Department of Mental Health, which oversees the hotline, said while some automated prompts may be used to gather basic details, a trained crisis specialist provides real-time support. According to the department’s website, the state is consistently reviewing the average speed to answer metrics to ensure people in crisis are connecting to support as quickly as possible.
The Missouri House Children and Families Committee has not yet voted on her bill that would require live 988 crisis counselors answer calls and quickly determine how to best proceed.
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