The bill H.573 amends existing laws regarding the certification process for emergency examinations related to mental health. It repeals the previous requirement for a certification of mental illness to be made exclusively by board-eligible or board-certified psychiatrists, allowing for a broader range of health care professionals to fulfill this role. Specifically, the bill replaces the term "licensed physician" with "health care professional" and introduces the requirement that a health care professional must complete a training developed by the Department before issuing a certificate for an emergency examination.

Additionally, the bill modifies the application process for emergency examinations by changing the applicant from "an interested party" to "a qualified mental health professional." It also clarifies that the authority for transporting individuals for emergency examinations will be overseen by the head of the hospital, who can designate a person to discharge this authority. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-7110, 18-7504
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-7110, 18-7504
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-7110, 18-7504