Michael Anderson, Tanisha’s uncle, sat near the back of Cleveland City Council’s chamber, waiting for the vote on Tanisha’s Law. The law, which passed after more than a year of introduction, aims to improve the city’s response to mental health crises.

Background

Tanisha Anderson died in 2014 after being restrained by police during a mental health crisis. Her family had called 911 for help, but the police responded instead of an ambulance. The incident led to a long-standing effort by Anderson to push for changes in the way the city handles such situations.

The law establishes a bureau within the city’s Division of Emergency Medical Services and tasks the deputy commissioner with expanding the crisis response system. Anderson’s persistence and determination were key to the law’s passage, which was the result of a true grassroots movement.

Impact

Tanisha’s Law is expected to have a significant impact on the city’s handling of mental health crises. The law will help ensure that people in crisis receive the help they need, rather than being treated as criminals. Anderson’s efforts have brought attention to the need for better crisis response and have inspired others to join the cause.

Original reporting: Signal Cleveland — read the source article.