Bill > HB52

This bill introduces several new provisions to protect and monitor minors receiving psychiatric hospital care in Alaska. It establishes that minors undergoing inpatient mental health evaluation have the right to confidential telephone or video communication with parents, legal guardians, or approved adults for at least two cumulative hours per week. The bill also requires the Department of Health to prepare and publish an annual report detailing the use of seclusion and restraint in psychiatric hospitals, including aggregate totals, types of psychotropic medications used in chemical restraints, and findings from hospital inspections. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Health conduct at least two unannounced inspections per year at psychiatric hospitals treating minors, during which they must interview at least 50% of the minor patients without staff present. The legislation further requires psychiatric hospitals to notify the Department of Health and the minor's parent or guardian within 72 hours of using any form of seclusion or restraint, and defines "chemical restraint" as a psychopharmacologic drug used for restraint, discipline, or convenience that is not medically necessary or is administered at a higher dose than needed. The bill also requires the Department of Family and Community Services to collect and report data on minors in state custody receiving psychiatric hospital care. These provisions aim to enhance oversight, transparency, and protection of minors' rights in psychiatric treatment settings.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB52