Senate Bill No. [number], introduced by J. Esp, aims to revise laws concerning mentally ill individuals by establishing a 72-hour mental health hold. Under this bill, a mental health professional can place an individual in a mental health or crisis stabilization facility for up to 72 hours if the individual meets specific criteria related to their mental disorder, such as being unable to provide for their basic needs or posing a threat to themselves or others. The bill outlines the process for evaluation, reporting, and potential release or further commitment of the individual after the hold period. Additionally, it allows for the transportation of individuals to appropriate facilities if none are available locally.

The bill also amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), including provisions related to the waiver of rights at hearings. It clarifies that a respondent's right to counsel and treatment cannot be waived, while allowing for the waiver of physical presence at hearings under certain conditions. The amendments include the introduction of new language regarding the use of electronic audio-video communication for hearings, ensuring that respondents can participate while maintaining their rights. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the mental health care process while safeguarding the rights of individuals undergoing treatment.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(1): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(2): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(3): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(4): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(5): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1(6): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_1: 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(1): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(2): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(3): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(4): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(5): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(6): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2(7): 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140
SB0435_2: 53-21-119, 53-21-132, 53-21-140