Bill > S1241

This bill aims to strengthen emergency restraint for persons suffering from dangerous or violent mental illness. It proposes the following key provisions: 1. Individuals who are violent, homicidal, or pose a risk of serious physical harm to others may be hospitalized for up to 72 hours under this law, based on a statement from someone who has been placed in reasonable fear of violent behavior and risk of serious physical harm. 2. Persons admitted under this provision are entitled to appointment of counsel and can request an emergency hearing. 3. Individuals hospitalized due to violent or homicidal tendencies or risk of serious harm to others must be held for at least three days before release, and then will be subject to seven days of in-person or video supervision by a licensed clinical social worker or mental health worker affiliated with a police department. 4. Hospitals must provide medical information, including treatment history and prescribed medications, to the supervising social worker upon request. 5. If the supervising social or mental health worker believes the released individual is relapsing or not complying with treatment, they can petition for expedited readmission to the facility without initiating a new proceeding.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S1241