House Bill No. [insert number] aims to enhance the mental health treatment provisions for victims of human sex trafficking in Louisiana. The bill amends R.S. 28:53(A) and (B)(1) to explicitly include victims of sex trafficking as individuals who may be admitted and detained at a treatment facility under an emergency certificate for observation, diagnosis, and treatment. It allows for a person who is a victim of sex trafficking to be treated similarly to those suffering from mental illness or substance-related disorders, recognizing that their experiences may lead to mental health conditions that require immediate care.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in executing emergency certificates. It specifies that a qualified healthcare professional must conduct an examination to determine if the individual poses a danger to themselves or others or is gravely disabled, which may include those suffering from mental health conditions due to their experiences as victims of sex trafficking. The proposed changes aim to ensure that victims receive appropriate mental health support and treatment in a timely manner, thereby addressing the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable population.

Statutes affected:
HB359 Original: 28:53(A)