House File 573 amends various sections of Iowa's Code regarding involuntary commitment and hospitalization procedures for individuals with substance use disorders. The bill allows any interested person to initiate proceedings by filing a verified application with the clerk of a district court, with provisions for transferring jurisdiction if the respondent is not located in the county where the application was filed. Additionally, the clerk or their designee is required to assist applicants in completing the application. The bill also grants peace officers the authority to take respondents into custody for placement in appropriate facilities based on court orders.

Further amendments include the requirement for chief medical officers of hospitals or facilities to notify law enforcement if a respondent leaves without authorization or fails to appear for treatment. The law enforcement agency is tasked with taking the respondent into custody. The bill also clarifies that individuals placed in a facility must remain there unless discharged or permitted to leave, and it allows for law enforcement to be notified in cases of unauthorized departure. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process of involuntary commitment and enhance the enforcement of treatment orders.

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