The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6838, aims to enhance access to substance use disorder treatment facilities by modifying existing commitment procedures and admission criteria. Key changes include the repeal of the requirement that a person must be intoxicated at the time of application for commitment. Instead, the bill allows for commitment if a person is deemed dangerous to themselves or others, needs medical treatment for detoxification, or is incapacitated by alcohol. The bill also emphasizes that a refusal to undergo treatment cannot be used as evidence of a lack of judgment regarding the need for treatment. Additionally, it expands the list of individuals who can apply for commitment to include emergency medical service providers.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new provision that prohibits rehabilitation facilities from denying admission to individuals solely based on their intoxication or positive drug tests at the time of application. This change is intended to ensure that individuals seeking help for substance use disorders are not turned away due to their current state, thereby promoting access to necessary treatment and rehabilitation services. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: