The bill amends the Michigan Mental Health Code to update definitions and procedures for individuals requiring mental health treatment. It clarifies the criteria for identifying a "person requiring treatment," now including those who may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others, those unable to meet basic physical needs, and those unwilling to participate in necessary treatment. The language has been revised for clarity, such as changing "himself or herself" to "the individual's self," and specifies that individuals with conditions like dementia or drug dependence are only considered for treatment if they meet additional criteria. The bill also modifies processes for protective custody and hospitalization, allowing peace officers to take individuals into protective custody based on reasonable cause and requiring a psychiatrist to examine hospitalized patients within 24 hours.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language regarding assisted outpatient treatment and involuntary mental health treatment, detailing the court's responsibilities in developing treatment orders while considering individual preferences. It mandates that any conflicts with existing legal documents, such as durable powers of attorney, be reviewed by a psychiatrist. The bill establishes duration limits for treatment orders and procedures for monitoring compliance, allowing mental health professionals to notify the court of non-compliance or insufficient treatment. The court can modify treatment orders without a hearing based on available information, emphasizing individual rights and the need for ongoing assessment of treatment effectiveness to ensure appropriate care and public safety.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 330.1401