Bill > HB546

This bill modifies existing Louisiana law, specifically R.S. 28:53(L)(1), to clarify the conditions under which a peace officer can take someone into protective custody for a medical evaluation. Previously, a peace officer needed "reasonable grounds" based on personal observation to believe a person was dangerous to themselves or others, gravely disabled, and required immediate hospitalization. The amended law now requires the peace officer or an accompanying emergency medical service technician to have "reason" to believe *both* that the person is a danger to themselves or others or gravely disabled, *and* that there's a substantial risk of serious harm if the person isn't taken into custody immediately. This belief can be formed based on the officer's own observation or credible information from a third party, and officers must follow departmental procedures.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=26rs&b=HB546&sbi=y