The bill amends the Mental Health Code to enhance the mediation process for disputes involving recipients of mental health services. It mandates that recipients, their individual representatives, or individuals permitted to file treatment petitions be offered mediation opportunities to resolve disputes with community mental health services programs or their contracted service providers regarding the planning and provision of services. The bill specifies that the community mental health services program or its contracted provider must notify recipients of their right to request mediation at the initiation of services and annually thereafter. Additionally, it establishes requirements for mediators, including their training and knowledge of relevant laws, and outlines the timeline for mediation processes, stating that mediation must begin within 10 business days and be completed within 30 days unless extended by mutual agreement.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for documenting the mediation outcomes, requiring mediators to prepare legally binding agreements if disputes are resolved, and to provide reports on mediation effectiveness to the department every six months. It also clarifies the examination process for individuals presented for mental health evaluation, ensuring timely assessments by licensed professionals and stipulating that individuals must be released if not certified as requiring treatment. The amendments aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of dispute resolution in mental health services, ensuring that recipients have clear pathways to address grievances.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 330.1206, 330.1429
As Passed by the Senate: 330.1206, 330.1429