Bill > HB2228

This bill amends Section 37.2-800 of the Virginia Code to clarify the definition of "law-enforcement officer" in the context of emergency and involuntary civil admissions for mental health treatment. Specifically, the bill expands the definition to include special conservators of the peace who have been authorized by a court order and explicitly designated as "law-enforcement officers" for the purposes of mental health emergency custody and temporary detention procedures. A special conservator of the peace is a type of peace officer with limited jurisdiction, typically appointed for specific purposes. The bill ensures that these specially appointed officers can perform the same functions as traditional law enforcement when it comes to mental health emergencies, such as taking individuals into custody for emergency evaluation or temporary detention if they are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness or substance abuse. This change takes effect immediately and will remain in place until July 1, 2026, when a slightly modified version of the same provision will become effective.

Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2228