Bill > S0541

This bill amends South Carolina law to add legal definitions and provisions for individuals with head injuries to the state's involuntary admission procedures, which previously only covered intellectual and related disabilities. Specifically, the bill defines "head injury" as a brain trauma caused by external physical force that results in impaired cognitive, physical, or emotional functioning, explicitly excluding degenerative conditions, congenital issues, and cerebral vascular accidents. The bill also defines "spinal cord injury" as an acute traumatic lesion in the spinal canal causing sensory, motor, or functional deficits. Under the new provisions, a person with a head injury can be involuntarily admitted to state services if their injury has resulted in intellectual functioning impairments similar to an intellectual disability, is likely to be permanent, causes substantial limitations in at least two major life activities (such as self-care, communication, learning, mobility, or independent living), and requires specialized, long-term interdisciplinary care. The involuntary admission process remains similar to existing procedures, allowing various parties like spouses, relatives, parents, guardians, or social services directors to initiate proceedings, with mandatory court hearings and legal representation for the individual. The bill aims to expand state support and services for individuals with severe head injuries who may require comprehensive, long-term care and assistance.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0541&session=126&summary=B