Bill > HB1677

This bill establishes new provisions for mental health evaluations of arrested individuals in Missouri, requiring that any person arrested and subject to a mental health competency evaluation must receive that evaluation within 45 days of arrest. If the evaluation determines that the person needs to be transferred to a mental health facility for treatment, such transfer must also occur within 45 days. The bill mandates that if the evaluation or transfer cannot be completed within the specified timeframe, the department of mental health or responsible entity must provide a detailed explanation of why the deadline was not met to the arresting authority or prosecuting attorney. Additionally, the department of mental health is required to submit an annual report to the state general assembly by January 1st each year, starting in 2027, summarizing their compliance with these provisions. The bill includes exceptions to these requirements in cases of medical emergencies, unavailability of evaluation personnel, or other court-approved justifiable delays, with any such delay not to exceed 15 days. This legislation aims to ensure timely mental health evaluations and potential treatment for individuals in the criminal justice system.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1677&year=2026&code=R