The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to improve mental health crisis services and streamline involuntary treatment processes. It introduces the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline call center under the new section 394.9088 and modifies the role of guardian advocates, allowing for their discharge when a patient is released from involuntary outpatient services. The bill also establishes criteria for clinical psychologists involved in involuntary placement determinations and revises the definition of "court" to include county courts for these services. Additionally, it clarifies procedures for continued involuntary services, ensuring that patients are represented by a public defender during hearings.

Further changes include the requirement for designated facilities to retain patients under specific conditions and the introduction of new criteria for involuntary outpatient placements. The bill removes previous requirements for medication-assisted treatment service providers for opiate addiction, reflecting a shift in regulatory oversight. It also updates training requirements for mental health professionals conducting forensic evaluations and modifies eligibility criteria for publicly funded services to include individuals with severe mental illness and those in the criminal justice system. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the goal of enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health and substance abuse services in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 1091 Filed: 394.4573, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 394.74
H 1091 c1: 394.4573, 394.4598, 394.4625, 394.4655, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 397.68141, 394.74
H 1091 c2: 394.4573, 394.4598, 394.4625, 394.4655, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 397.68141, 394.74
H 1091 e1: 394.4573, 394.4598, 394.4625, 394.463, 394.4655, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 397.68141, 394.74
H 1091 er: 394.4573, 394.4598, 394.4625, 394.463, 394.4655, 916.111, 916.115, 916.12, 394.674, 397.68141, 394.74