The proposed bill amends the Nebraska Mental Health Commitment Act to enhance the civil commitment process for individuals deemed mentally ill and dangerous. It introduces new definitions, such as "interested party," allowing family members and close friends to file petitions for commitment. The criteria for determining mental illness and danger are expanded to include additional evidence of risk, such as recent mental health deterioration and potential property damage. The bill also establishes penalties for bad faith petitions and clarifies the roles of mental health boards and county attorneys in the commitment process. It modifies the petition process to require specific information about the subject and the petitioner's relationship, mandates the commencement of mental health board proceedings upon petition filing, and emphasizes the need for the least restrictive treatment options.

Additionally, the bill enhances the rights of victims in mental health and legal proceedings by requiring regular reports from mental health boards and granting counsel the right to request information from county attorneys or interested parties after an individual is taken into emergency protective custody. It outlines notification requirements for victims regarding developments in parole or mental health proceedings, including tentative release dates and parole hearings, while allowing victims to waive their right to notification. The bill also mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services notify victims in cases of escape or discharge of individuals under mental health board commitment, thereby promoting transparency and protecting the rights of victims throughout the process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-901, 71-903, 71-908, 71-921, 71-922, 71-923, 71-925, 71-930, 71-932, 71-949, 81-1850