This bill amends the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code and the Assisted Outpatient Treatment Act to introduce new definitions for "harm to self" and "harm to others." The new definition of "harm to self" specifies that a person's recent behavior may indicate an inability to meet essential needs, which could lead to serious physical or mental debilitation if treatment is not provided. Similarly, "harm to others" is defined as actions taken by a person that have resulted in or attempted to result in serious bodily harm to another, with a likelihood of such conduct being repeated in the near future.

Additionally, the bill removes previous definitions that referred to "likelihood of serious harm to oneself" and "likelihood of serious harm to others," replacing them with the newly defined terms. This change aims to clarify the criteria for assessing risks associated with individuals in mental health contexts, thereby enhancing the commitment procedures under the relevant laws. The amendments are intended to improve the understanding and application of mental health treatment protocols, ensuring that they are aligned with current practices and standards.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 43-1-3, 43-1B-2
JU substitute: 43-1-3, 43-1B-2