The bill amends Section 1 of Act 2020-190, which pertains to the St. Clair County Mental Health Advisory Board and the duties of the St. Clair County Mental Health Officer. Key changes include the establishment of a fee structure for services provided by the Probate Office, allowing the advisory board to adjust the fee between $6.50 and $8.50. The bill also clarifies the roles and responsibilities of the mental health officer and assistant mental health officers, who will now be appointed by the advisory board and serve under the supervision of the Judge of Probate. Notably, the language regarding the mental health officer being an employee of the sheriff has been deleted, allowing for more flexibility in the appointment process.
Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for law enforcement officers when dealing with individuals suspected of having a mental illness who may pose a threat to themselves or others. It mandates that a mental health officer be dispatched to assess such individuals and determine the need for specialized care. If commitment is deemed necessary, the mental health officer is responsible for filing a petition with the probate court. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.