This bill establishes new rights and regulations concerning minors undergoing evaluation or inpatient treatment at psychiatric hospitals in Alaska. It grants minors the right to have confidential communication with their parents or legal guardians for at least two hours each week, unless restricted by law or deemed therapeutically unadvisable. Additionally, the Department of Health is mandated to prepare and publish an annual report detailing the use of seclusion and restraint on minors, findings from hospital inspections, and data on minors in state custody receiving care at psychiatric hospitals. The bill also requires psychiatric hospitals to notify the Department of Health and the minor's guardian within 72 hours of any use of seclusion or restraint.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for unannounced inspections of psychiatric hospitals by the Department of Health, ensuring that at least 50% of minor patients are interviewed during these inspections. It defines "chemical restraint" and clarifies that it does not include medications used for treating underlying psychiatric conditions. The bill aims to enhance the oversight and protection of minors in psychiatric care, with an effective date set for July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB0052A, AM HB 52, introduced 01/21/2025: 47.32.030, 47.32.200, 47.32.110, 47.32.010
HB0052B, AM CSHB 52(HSS), introduced 04/30/2025: 47.32.030, 47.32.200, 47.32.110, 47.32.010, 47.32.900
HB0052C, AM CSHB 52(HSS) am, introduced 04/22/2026, passed House 04/22/2026: 47.32.030, 47.32.200, 47.32.110, 47.32.010, 47.32.900
HB0052D, AM SCS CSHB 52(FIN), introduced 05/16/2026: 47.32.030, 47.32.200, 47.32.110, 47.32.010, 47.32.900
HB0052Z, AM Enrolled HB 52, introduced 05/17/2026: 47.32.030, 47.32.200, 47.32.110, 47.32.010, 47.32.900