House Bill 1355 amends various sections of Florida law concerning mental health and substance abuse treatment, focusing on involuntary treatment processes and the rights of individuals 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 these hearings, streamlining legal representation. Additionally, the bill revises criteria for involuntary examinations and treatment, expands the role of administrative law judges in these cases, and facilitates electronic communication for notifications regarding involuntary admissions. It emphasizes a collaborative approach in developing treatment plans while ensuring the rights of individuals are upheld.

Further provisions in the bill include updated definitions related to neglect and the criteria for involuntary treatment, as well as the responsibilities of the state attorney in these proceedings. The bill mandates that facilities provide comprehensive information to prospective guardian advocates and requires them to meet with the patient and a qualified professional before consenting to treatment. It also outlines the process for involuntary outpatient services, emphasizing the need for individualized service plans and the involvement of a social worker or case manager. Overall, HB 1355 aims to enhance the management and treatment of individuals undergoing involuntary examinations and improve the overall mental health service framework in Florida.

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