This bill amends existing laws regarding the involuntary commitment and treatment of individuals with substance use disorders in Iowa. It allows any interested person to initiate proceedings by filing a verified application in any district court. If the application is filed in a court where the respondent does not reside, the court is required to transfer the case to the appropriate district court where the respondent is located or resides. Additionally, the bill mandates that clerks or their designees assist applicants in completing the verified application.

Furthermore, the bill grants peace officers the authority to take respondents into custody in any county where they are found, ensuring they can be placed in a facility for treatment as ordered by the court. It also includes provisions for notifying law enforcement if a respondent leaves a treatment facility without authorization. The bill directs the Iowa Supreme Court to adopt rules for its implementation and makes conforming changes to existing laws regarding escape from custody.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 125.75, 125.83, 229.6, 229.13, 229.14B