This bill amends the Mental Health Code of Michigan to enhance the process for accessing mental health records in cases of child abuse or neglect investigations. It specifies that if there is a compelling need for mental health records to determine whether child abuse or neglect has occurred, a caseworker or administrator from the Department of Health and Human Services must notify the relevant mental health professional and request pertinent records in writing. The mental health professional is then required to review and release the relevant records within seven days of receiving the request.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain privileges, such as physician-patient and psychologist-patient privileges, do not apply to the mental health records released under this section. It also provides immunity from civil or administrative liability for individuals who, in good faith, release mental health records as required by this act, unless their actions constitute gross negligence or willful misconduct. The bill emphasizes that the duties related to child abuse and neglect do not override other statutory obligations regarding reporting or investigating such cases.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 330.1748
House Introduced Bill: 330.1748
As Passed by the House: 330.1748