The bill S. 299 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the emergency admission of individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness. Specifically, it modifies Section 44-17-410 to extend the validity of the required certification for emergency admission if safe transport is unavailable due to a natural disaster or other life-threatening conditions. Additionally, it amends Section 44-17-440 to clarify the circumstances under which a friend or relative may transport a mentally ill patient and to provide civil immunity for those involved in the transport process under certain conditions.

Key changes include the stipulation that the certification for emergency admission will remain valid until three days after conditions are deemed safe for transport in the event of a natural disaster. The bill also allows friends or relatives to transport the patient if they sign a statement acknowledging their responsibility and liability, while ensuring that law enforcement officers and emergency medical technicians are granted civil immunity when acting in accordance with the law. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/30/2025: 44-17-410, 44-17-440
Latest Version: 44-17-410, 44-17-440