Assembly approves creating 211 information line for services - California

[Kadie]

Assembly approves creating 211 information line for services


The Associated Press


Last Updated: May 25, 2004, 11:50:24 AM PDT


SACRAMENTO (AP) - Confused Californians would be able to call 2-1-1 to learn where to turn for state help with child care, health care or other essential services, under a bill approved Tuesday by the state Assembly.

The state could get federal matching funds to operate a 211 information line, similar to those in 25 other states, but first must get it up and running, said the bill's author, Assemblywoman Judy Chu, D-Monterey Park.

Having a statewide information line would streamline getting a broad variety of services to people and relieve the overburdened 911 system of inappropriate requests, supporters said.

"When you call 911 and don't get an answer, it's because they're backed up with calls that could be referred to 211," said Assemblyman John Benoit, R-Bermuda Dunes.

more... http://www.modbee.com/state_wire/story/8619782p-9490790c.html