Bill > SB538

This bill, relating to the control of infectious diseases, allows the governor to declare a state of infectious disease emergency if an infectious disease poses a serious and imminent risk to public health, with specific criteria for determining such a risk, and requires the governor to consult with the commissioner of state health services and the division (likely referring to a state health department or agency). Such an emergency declaration would grant the commissioner of state health services broad authority over public health policy and disease control measures, and the bill also allows for the collection of animal samples without owner permission for disease testing, clarifies information exchange protocols between animal health agencies, and permits the release of a person's name and location to first responders if they are believed to be infected with a communicable disease that poses a serious risk. Furthermore, the bill expands the governor's authority to issue control orders for individuals with communicable diseases, which may include requiring them to remain in a specific location, and allows peace officers to use reasonable force to secure individuals subject to these orders, including emergency detention for up to 48 hours if they pose a substantial risk of serious harm to others and are not complying with control orders. The bill also establishes a Task Force on Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response to advise the governor, mandates the creation of stockpiles for personal protective equipment, and allows for the development of mobile applications and portable medical waste treatment options to combat infectious diseases, while also addressing cremations of deceased individuals with communicable diseases and providing immunity for related services.