Bill S.195, introduced by Senator Hashim, aims to enhance legal representation for individuals involved in commitment proceedings related to mental health. The bill mandates that the Office of the Defender General represent individuals who are found incompetent to stand trial or have been acquitted by reason of insanity, replacing the previous requirement for representation by Vermont Legal Aid. Additionally, the bill allows for the court to revoke an order of nonhospitalization if it determines that the patient is not complying with the treatment order or if the treatment is inadequate.

Furthermore, the bill amends the existing law regarding nonhospitalization orders, allowing the court to modify or revoke its original order for alternative treatment if necessary. The changes include the removal of the stipulation that the court must direct the patient to undergo alternative treatment for the remainder of a specified 90-day period, thereby providing more flexibility in managing treatment plans. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-4820, 18-7618