Bill > HB1760

This bill aims to improve protections for individuals with mental illness and the public by modifying the criteria for involuntary hospitalization and extending emergency hospitalization periods. It redefines "dangerous to self" to include being "gravely disabled," a term now defined as being unable to provide for basic needs like food, shelter, or essential medical care, leading to probable death or serious harm without treatment. The bill also introduces the term "psychiatric deterioration" to describe a significant decline in judgment or behavior control. Furthermore, it broadens the definition of "imminently dangerous to self or others" by extending the timeframe within which such danger is likely to occur from 45 to 90 days, allowing for intervention before a crisis point is reached. Finally, it increases the maximum duration of emergency hospitalization from 48 to 72 hours, providing more time for evaluation and treatment initiation.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1760&year=2026