House Bill 1355 amends various sections of Florida law concerning mental health and substance abuse treatment, focusing on the processes for involuntary treatment and the roles of professionals involved. The bill allows a "qualified professional" to provide opinions for court petitions regarding guardian advocates, rather than limiting this role to psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses. It also removes the requirement for the court to appoint a public defender for indigent individuals during hearings on such petitions. Additionally, the bill streamlines the criteria for involuntary examinations and treatment, clarifies the responsibilities of service providers, and introduces electronic communication for notices related to involuntary admissions. Importantly, it ensures that respondents have the right to counsel throughout the judicial process and outlines procedures for hearings, including access to independent expert evaluations.

Further provisions in the bill enhance the framework for involuntary outpatient services, requiring individualized service plans and coordination among service providers. It establishes clear procedures for court hearings, including the right to refuse testimony and the requirement for hearings to be held in person, with remote testimony permitted under certain conditions. The bill also emphasizes the importance of discharge planning and follow-up care for individuals upon completion of treatment. Overall, HB 1355 aims to improve the efficiency and fairness of mental health treatment processes while ensuring that individuals' rights are protected and that appropriate care is provided.

Statutes affected:
H 1355 Filed: 27.51, 27.511, 394.4599, 394.4615, 394.4655, 394.467, 394.468, 394.4785, 394.495, 394.496, 394.676, 394.875, 397.416, 397.501, 397.675, 397.681, 397.697, 397.6971, 397.6975, 397.6977, 394.9085, 397.6798, 790.065