The bill amends the Mental Health Code of Michigan, specifically section 461, to clarify the requirements for determining if an individual requires treatment under certain petitions. It stipulates that for petitions filed under section 434(1) to (6), at least one physician or licensed psychologist must testify, either in person or via written deposition. For petitions filed under section 434(7), the requirement for testimony can be waived if a qualified health professional has examined the individual and attests to the need for treatment. Additionally, the bill introduces the term "qualified health professional," which includes psychiatric nurse practitioners and physician assistants working under a psychiatrist's supervision.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new chapter (10A) that allows for the diversion of individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses to assisted outpatient treatment. It outlines the process for assessing whether a defendant meets the criteria for such treatment and specifies that if a defendant complies with the treatment order, their charges may be dismissed after a specified period. The bill also emphasizes that compliance with the treatment plan is separate from conditions of release and that the community treatment program has discretion over treatment decisions. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of several related bills in the legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 330.1461