Bill > H1741

This bill proposes to amend Section 35 of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 123, which governs the commitment of individuals believed to have an alcohol or substance use disorder. Specifically, the bill expands the list of people who can petition a district court or juvenile court division for an order of commitment. Currently, only police officers, physicians, spouses, blood relatives, guardians, and court officials can file such a petition. The proposed amendment adds Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (Levels I and II) and Licensed Social Workers to this list of eligible petitioners. The language change allows these additional professional mental health and addiction specialists to initiate a legal process for committing someone they believe is struggling with an alcohol or substance use disorder. This modification potentially increases the avenues through which individuals with serious addiction issues can be referred for professional help and treatment. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, providing a broader range of professionals the ability to intervene in cases where they believe an individual requires court-mandated treatment for substance use disorders.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1741