The bill amends various sections of Washington state law concerning involuntary treatment, particularly focusing on assisted outpatient treatment. Key changes include a requirement for courts to consult the judicial information system to evaluate a respondent's criminal history and prior civil commitments before granting relief under chapter 71.05 RCW, with the court mandated to give significant weight to this information. The standard for determining if a person needs assisted outpatient treatment is changed from "clear, cogent, and convincing" evidence to "a preponderance of the evidence." The bill also expands the list of individuals authorized to file petitions for less restrictive alternative treatment and outlines the necessary components of such petitions, including personal interviews with the individual in question.

Additionally, the bill enhances the role of designated crisis responders and peace officers in the detention process, requiring peace officers to assist in detaining individuals when a warrant is issued. It introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding who can petition for court review of detention decisions, replacing "immediate family member" with broader categories such as "intimate partner" and "family or household member." The bill also emphasizes timely communication with tribes and Indian health care providers when petitions involve American Indian or Alaska Native individuals. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the treatment process while ensuring the rights and safety of individuals with behavioral health disorders.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 2.28.210, 71.05.130, 71.05.148, 71.05.150, 71.05.153, 71.05.201, 71.05.203, 71.05.245, 71.05.260, 71.05.325, 71.05.425, 71.05.335, 71.05.340, 71.05.590, 9A.46.060, 71.05.585, 71.05.620, 71.34.020, 71.34.700, 71.34.710, 71.34.740, 71.34.755, 71.34.780, 71.34.815, 70.02.230, 70.02.170
Substitute bill: 2.28.210, 71.05.130, 71.05.148, 71.05.150, 71.05.153, 71.05.201, 71.05.203, 71.05.245, 71.05.300, 71.05.325, 71.05.425, 71.05.335, 71.05.340, 71.05.590, 9A.46.060, 71.05.585, 71.05.620, 71.34.020, 71.34.700, 71.34.710, 71.34.740, 71.34.755, 71.34.780, 71.34.815, 70.02.230, 70.02.170, 10.79.035