Bill > HB2704

This bill revises the process for involuntary mental health commitment transportation and reimbursement in West Virginia. Specifically, the bill allows counties more flexibility in transporting individuals who have been involuntarily committed to mental health facilities. It introduces two key changes: first, it permits multiple deputies to be involved in patient transportation, and second, it gives counties the discretion to contract with out-of-state hospitals that may be geographically closer to their jurisdiction. The bill also mandates that the Department of Health Facilities will reimburse law enforcement agencies for the actual costs of transporting patients who have been involuntarily committed, effective July 1, 2022. This change aims to provide more logistical flexibility for counties dealing with mental health commitment cases, potentially reducing transportation costs and complexities by allowing counties to choose the most convenient and appropriate healthcare facility, even if it is located in a neighboring state.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2704&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill