Bill > SB820

This bill addresses mental health treatment for inmates in county jails, specifically for individuals found incompetent to stand trial on misdemeanor charges. The bill creates a framework for administering antipsychotic medication to such inmates without their prior informed consent under certain strict conditions. These conditions include emergency situations, or when a court determines the individual is gravely disabled and lacks the capacity to consent to treatment. Before involuntary medication can be administered, the bill mandates that the individual receives written notice about the diagnosis, potential side effects, and treatment alternatives, and is entitled to legal representation, access to medical records, and the right to present evidence. The court must find by clear and convincing evidence that the medication is necessary, with no less intrusive alternatives available, and is in the individual's best medical interest. The bill also prohibits using an inmate's temporary access to basic necessities while incarcerated as proof that they can provide for their own needs. Importantly, the provisions of this bill are set to expire on January 1, 2030, allowing for future legislative review and potential modification of these mental health treatment protocols.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB820