This bill amends Chapter 40.1-5 of the General Laws, known as the "Mental Health Law," by updating definitions and processes related to mental health facilities and professionals. It introduces the definition of "Advanced practice registered nurse" (APRN) and expands the definition of "Facility" to include community mental health centers. The bill removes the requirement for certain hospitals to apply for approval to operate under this chapter and updates the definition of "Mental health professional" to include APRNs. It also introduces the term "Qualified mental health professional" (QMHP) and refines the language of the law by making various insertions and deletions, such as replacing "clinicians" with "clinician and licensed APRN" and deleting outdated references.

The bill modifies the law concerning the admission and rights of mental health patients, expanding the definition of employment to include community mental health centers and licensed hospitals for emergency psychiatric assessments. It changes the language related to disabilities, includes APRNs in the definition of examining physicians for certification, and outlines patient rights, such as privacy and access to outdoor space. The bill also revises the emergency certification process, allowing APRNs and qualified mental health professionals to apply for emergency certification, streamlining the application review process, and ensuring the least restrictive care necessary. Additionally, it amends the involuntary admission process, specifying who can file a petition for certification, the types of medical professionals who can provide certification, and the rights and procedures for court-ordered psychiatric examinations. The bill also updates the process for securing examination and certification, expands the authority of courts, and recognizes APRNs as qualified to certify the need for mental health treatment.