The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) concerning the involuntary treatment act, with a focus on enhancing legal representation and clarifying definitions related to behavioral health services. It introduces new definitions such as "state facility," which includes specific inpatient service centers operated by the Department of Social and Health Services, and updates the definition of "substance use disorder." The bill also expands the definition of "treatment records" to encompass a wider range of documentation, including mental health information found in medical bills, while excluding personal notes from treatment providers. Additionally, it clarifies the roles of various professionals involved in the treatment of individuals with behavioral health disorders and emphasizes the importance of legal counsel for public behavioral health service providers.

Moreover, the bill outlines new provisions for the reimbursement process for judicial services related to civil commitment cases, allowing counties and tribes to apply for reimbursement of direct costs incurred. It specifies that no filing fees may be charged for civil commitment cases subject to reimbursement and details the responsibilities of the health care authority in contracting for public defense services. The bill also includes significant insertions regarding the role of the office of public defense, which will provide legal services for indigent persons in involuntary commitment cases at the request of the health care authority. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the legal framework surrounding behavioral health treatment, ensuring adequate representation and support for individuals in need of such services.

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