Bill > HB2516

This bill establishes the "Family Mental Health Advocacy and Patient Rights Act", which introduces significant changes to mental health patient rights and family involvement in mental health treatment. The legislation creates new provisions that automatically grant a "qualified family advocate" access to patient information and treatment decisions when an individual is detained for mental health evaluation, with specific criteria defining who can serve in this role (typically a close relative over 18 who has lived with the patient). The bill creates a rebuttable presumption of patient incapacity upon detention, which allows the family advocate to participate in treatment team meetings, access treatment information, and be involved in medication and discharge decisions. Patients are guaranteed specific rights, including dignified treatment, clear explanations of diagnosis and treatment, participation in care decisions, and a rapid appeal process for involuntary detention. Mental health facilities must post these rights visibly and provide them in writing, and the Department of Mental Health is required to investigate complaints about rights violations and can impose administrative sanctions. The bill also modifies existing confidentiality laws to allow more family involvement while maintaining patient protections, and includes provisions for the advocate's access to end when the patient's capacity is restored. The legislation aims to balance patient privacy with family support and advocacy in mental health treatment settings.

Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2516&year=2026&code=R