The bill CS/CS/HB 1091 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance mental health and substance abuse services, particularly focusing on crisis intervention and involuntary treatment processes. A significant addition is the incorporation of the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline call center under the new section 394.9088, which aims to expand mental health crisis services. The bill also revises the criteria for involuntary outpatient placement, introducing a structured process that includes the preparation of a service plan and the representation of patients by public defenders during hearings for continued involuntary services. Additionally, it mandates that clinical psychologists involved in these determinations possess specific clinical experience and establishes clearer guidelines for patient retention in designated facilities.

Moreover, the legislation removes certain language regarding medication-assisted treatment programs for opiate addiction and stipulates that service providers will be funded based on available resources. It updates training requirements for mental health professionals conducting forensic evaluations, ensuring they complete initial and annual training on competency restoration and evidence-based practices. The bill also emphasizes eligibility criteria for publicly funded services, prioritizing adults with severe mental illness and those in the criminal justice system, and includes provisions for petitions for involuntary treatment services that require descriptions of exigent circumstances. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the overarching goal of improving 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