The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the legal framework surrounding the involuntary treatment of individuals with behavioral health disorders. It introduces new definitions, such as "state hospital," and updates existing definitions for terms like "substance use disorder" and "treatment records" to clarify the roles of professionals involved in treatment. The bill also mandates the appointment of legal counsel for individuals detained under the involuntary treatment act, ensuring access to legal representation. Additionally, it includes provisions for the reimbursement process for counties and tribes involved in civil commitment cases, specifying that no filing fees may be charged for these cases.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes the importance of licensed facilities in providing care for minors with behavioral health disorders and introduces new technologies for delivering behavioral health services, such as "store and forward technology." It also expands the definition of "parent" to include individuals authorized by a parent to make healthcare decisions for a minor. The responsibilities of the Office of Public Defense are updated to include providing representation for indigent persons in involuntary commitment cases. Overall, the bill aims to improve the clarity and effectiveness of mental health services while safeguarding the legal rights of individuals receiving treatment.

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