The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding the transportation of individuals for mental health services. Under the new law, beginning July 1, 2027, a peace officer would be prohibited from conducting the transport of a person from a hospital emergency department or a locked unit of a behavioral health facility to another health care institution, evaluation agency, or mental health treatment agency, unless specific conditions are met, such as the person being incarcerated, a court or agency believing that safe apprehension requires a peace officer, or an emergency request for assistance is made.

Additionally, the bill mandates that an authorized transporter must conduct any apprehension and transport of a patient or proposed patient, thereby shifting the responsibility away from peace officers in most circumstances. This change aims to streamline the process of transporting individuals for mental health services while ensuring that law enforcement involvement is limited to situations where it is deemed necessary for safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-503.02, 36-523
House Engrossed Version: 36-503.05