Bill > S1105

This bill amends Chapter 123 Section 12 of the General Laws to provide additional safeguards and accountability measures for the emergency restraint and involuntary hospitalization of individuals who are deemed to pose a risk of serious harm due to mental illness. Key provisions include: - Defining specific criteria for determining "persons posing risk of serious harm," prohibiting the use of vague or speculative grounds for involuntary restraint or hospitalization. - Requiring licensed healthcare professionals to report any violations or abuse related to the law's provisions to the Departments of Public Health and Mental Health. - Mandating that facilities have a licensed psychiatrist on staff or on call at all times to evaluate any person transported there, and that such a person be discharged if not evaluated within 2 hours. - Limiting the ability of non-authorized individuals, including police, to initiate applications for involuntary transport, restraint, or hospitalization. - Ensuring individuals have access to legal counsel, patient advocates, and the ability to challenge their involuntary status or treatment. - Directing the Departments of Public Health and Mental Health to develop and disseminate standardized forms and procedures to implement the law's requirements. Overall, the bill aims to promote accountability and prevent the misuse or violation of individual rights in the emergency mental health evaluation and treatment process.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S1105