Assembly Bill 114 proposes amendments to Wisconsin's emergency detention laws, specifically allowing certain medical and behavioral health clinicians to initiate the emergency detention of minors. The bill creates a new subsection (4r) in statute 51.15, which outlines the process for clinician-initiated detentions, applicable in counties other than Milwaukee County. Under this bill, counties can authorize qualified clinicians—such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed social workers—to initiate detentions if they believe a minor is mentally ill, drug dependent, or developmentally disabled, and that detention is the least restrictive alternative. The bill also mandates that counties develop training programs for these clinicians to ensure they are well-versed in emergency detention procedures.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for county approval of clinician-initiated detentions, custody and transportation responsibilities, and filing requirements for statements of emergency detention. It specifies that the county department must approve the detention and is responsible for transporting the minor to a treatment facility. The bill also establishes liability protections for individuals acting in good faith under these procedures and imposes penalties for knowingly making false statements in the context of emergency detentions. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the mental health response for minors while ensuring proper oversight and training for clinicians involved in the process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 51.15(3), 51.15