Bill > SB1163

This bill modifies Arizona's mental health emergency admission laws to explicitly include police officers employed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in the process of apprehending and transporting veterans who may need emergency mental health evaluation. Specifically, the bill expands existing provisions that allow peace officers to take individuals into custody if they have probable cause to believe the person is a danger to themselves or others due to a mental disorder. The new language allows VA police officers to perform similar functions for veterans, enabling them to transport a veteran to a screening or evaluation agency if the veteran appears likely to suffer serious physical harm or pose a risk to others without immediate hospitalization. The bill maintains protections for officers making these determinations in good faith, ensuring they are not subject to civil liability. The changes aim to provide additional support and intervention options specifically for veterans experiencing mental health emergencies, recognizing the unique challenges this population might face. The bill is classified as an emergency measure, meaning it becomes operative immediately upon approval to preserve public health and safety.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82339