The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to mental health services, specifically sections 36-524 and 36-525 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. It would grant peace or police officers who are employees of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (U.S. VA) the authority to apply for both written and telephonic emergency admission applications. Additionally, it would allow these officers to take into custody and transport veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces to screening or evaluation agencies. The bill also requires these officers to take reasonable precautions to safeguard premises and property if apprehension occurs on-site, and it precludes them from civil liability when they make a good faith effort to comply with the prescribed requirements.

Current language regarding telephonic applications would be updated to specify that they can be made by a police officer who is an employee of the U.S. VA, and the bill would clarify the roles of these officers in the process of apprehending and transporting individuals for emergency evaluations. The bill emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the premises during apprehension and reinforces the civil liability protections for officers acting in good faith. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the ability of U.S. VA officers to respond to emergencies involving veterans while ensuring legal protections for their actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-524, 36-525, 36-520, 36-521
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-524, 36-525, 36-520, 36-521
Chaptered Version: 36-524, 36-525, 36-520, 36-521