Bill > SB1112

This bill amends Arizona law regarding mental health hearings, specifically concerning witness testimony. Previously, hearings required testimony from two or more witnesses who observed or were acquainted with the patient before their current evaluation application, and these witnesses could not be formal participants in the evaluation process. The bill changes this requirement to at least one witness who observed or was acquainted with the patient, and clarifies that this witness cannot be a formal participant in the evaluation. Importantly, the court now has the discretion to waive the requirement for testimony from an acquaintance witness if sufficient clear and convincing evidence has already been presented from other sources to establish the need for court-ordered treatment. The bill also maintains that the testimony of these witnesses should be limited to observed facts and not expert opinions.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83884