Bill > S1176

This bill proposes to remove the existing 3-day involuntary commitment provision for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis from Chapter 123 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Currently, the law allows a person to apply to a district court or juvenile court justice to have someone with a mental illness committed to a facility for up to 3 days if there is a likelihood that the person could cause serious harm. Under the existing statute, this process requires the court to appoint counsel for the person, potentially issue a warrant for their apprehension, and mandate an examination by a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or qualified psychologist. If the examination confirms a likelihood of serious harm due to mental illness, the court could order a 3-day commitment to a facility, with the superintendent having the discretion to discharge the person earlier. By striking this entire paragraph, the bill effectively eliminates this legal mechanism for involuntary short-term psychiatric hospitalization, which could significantly change how mental health emergencies are handled in the state.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1176