The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the legal framework surrounding involuntary treatment and behavioral health services. It introduces new definitions, such as "state facility," which includes specific inpatient services provided by the Department of Social and Health Services, and clarifies terms like "substance use disorder" and "treatment records." The bill also updates the definitions of various professionals involved in mental health care, including "substance use disorder professionals" and "therapeutic court personnel," while ensuring that treatment records encompass comprehensive documentation but exclude personal notes from providers.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Office of Public Defense (OPD) provide legal representation for indigent individuals in involuntary commitment cases, either directly or through contracts with qualified practitioners. It establishes a reimbursement framework for counties and tribes related to judicial services in civil commitment cases and clarifies that no filing fee may be charged for these cases. The amendments aim to streamline legal processes, improve access to legal counsel, and ensure that individuals with behavioral health disorders receive appropriate care and representation, thereby addressing public safety concerns and enhancing the overall management of involuntary treatment cases in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023
Substitute Bill: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023
Second Substitute: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023
Engrossed Second Substitute: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023
Bill as Passed Legislature: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023
Session Law: 71.05.110, 71.05.130, 71.05.730, 72.23.010, 72.23.020, 2.70.020, 2.70.023