The bill amends Section 40.1-5-41 of the General Laws in Chapter 40.1-5, which pertains to the Mental Health Law, to extend immunity from liability to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in the same manner as it currently applies to physicians. The new legal language clarifies that no licensed physician or APRN, who meets the necessary requirements, can be held liable in court for their participation in proceedings under this chapter unless there is evidence of actual fraud or gross, willful, or wanton negligence.

Additionally, the bill removes specific references to "surgeon" and certain provisions regarding liability for damages or injuries related to a patient's exercise of rights protected by the chapter. The intent of these changes is to ensure that APRNs are afforded the same legal protections as physicians, thereby promoting their role in mental health care without the fear of legal repercussions for their professional actions. The act is set to take effect upon passage.