Bill > HB468

This bill modifies Maryland's laws regarding emergency mental health evaluations by establishing clearer guidelines for petitions that request an emergency psychiatric evaluation. Specifically, the bill stipulates that a court-endorsed petition for emergency evaluation will be effective for 5 days, with the possibility of the court extending the petition for up to 5 days at a time, not to exceed a total of 30 days. The extensions must be based on separate motions made by the original petitioner and must demonstrate good cause based on the individual's presenting behavior. The bill also requires the court to include the petition's expiration date directly on the document. Additionally, the legislation authorizes peace officers to use reasonable and necessary force when executing such petitions, in accordance with existing public safety regulations. The changes aim to provide more structured and time-limited procedures for emergency mental health evaluations while ensuring appropriate legal protections for both the individual being evaluated and the officers executing the petition. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving relevant agencies time to prepare for the new requirements.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0468?ys=2025RS