The bill amends various sections of Louisiana's mental health law concerning involuntary outpatient treatment. Key changes include the ability to file a petition for treatment in the judicial district where the respondent resides or is believed to be present. The bill also updates the timeline for court hearings, extending it from eighteen to thirty days after the petition is filed. Additionally, it specifies that a physician, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, psychologist, or medical psychologist must examine the respondent and provide a written report to the court, which must be completed within ten days before or after the petition is filed.

Further amendments include the requirement for the examining professional to testify at the hearing regarding the recommended treatment and its rationale. The bill allows for the court to order involuntary outpatient treatment only if the examining professional testifies about the least restrictive treatment options available. It also modifies the language around the provision of treatment plans, allowing for more flexibility in the timeline for submission and approval. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the judicial process for involuntary outpatient mental health treatment while ensuring the rights of respondents are protected.

Statutes affected:
SB231 Original: 28:68(A), 28:69(A)(1), 28:70(D)(1), 28:71(C)
SB231 Engrossed: 28:68(A), 28:69(A)(1), 28:70(D)(1), 28:71(C)
SB231 Reengrossed: 28:68(A), 28:69(A)(1), 28:70(D)(1), 28:71(C)
SB231 Enrolled: 28:68(A), 28:69(A)(1), 28:70(D)(1), 28:71(C)
SB231 Act : 28:68(A), 28:69(A)(1), 28:70(D)(1), 28:71(C)