The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the legal framework surrounding involuntary treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. It introduces new definitions, such as "state facility," which includes specific inpatient service centers, and clarifies terms like "substance use disorder" and "treatment records," expanding the latter to encompass comprehensive documentation related to behavioral health services. The bill also updates the definitions of key professionals involved in treatment, such as "substance use disorder professional" and "therapeutic court personnel," ensuring clarity in the roles and responsibilities of those providing care.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of legal representation for individuals undergoing civil commitment proceedings, mandating that appointed counsel be available regardless of the individual's county of origin. It establishes a reimbursement process for counties and tribes providing judicial services in these cases, ensuring that no filing fees are charged for civil commitment cases subject to reimbursement. The bill also includes provisions for the Office of Public Defense to provide necessary legal representation for indigent individuals, streamlining the legal process and ensuring that public safety considerations are prioritized. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the understanding and delivery of behavioral health services while ensuring that individuals receive appropriate legal support.

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