SB1578 is a bill that amends current Arizona law to allow for court-ordered treatment of individuals with severe and persistent substance use disorders, even if they do not have any co-occurring mental disorders. Under the current law, individuals with substance use disorders cannot be considered for involuntary treatment unless they also have a mental disorder. The bill redefines "mental disorder" to include substance use disorders that may co-occur with other disorders and removes the prohibition on involuntary treatment for those with only substance use disorders, provided they are a danger to themselves or others, have a grave disability, and are unwilling or unable to accept voluntary treatment.

The bill also specifies that a person with a substance use disorder can only be ordered to undergo treatment if they have been diagnosed by a qualified health professional, their disorder is severe and persistent, and they can reasonably benefit from treatment. The bill is designated as the "Matthew Casey Wethington Act for Substance Abuse Intervention" and will become effective on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-501, 36-521.01, 13-4510, 36-402, 12-2801, 36-401, 36-2041, 32-1601, 36-441, 36-445, 36-2402, 36-2917, 36-3401