Senate Bill 646 proposes an amendment to Wisconsin Statute 51.61 (1) (g) 3., which pertains to the competency of individuals who have been involuntarily committed to refuse medication or treatment. Currently, a court must determine an individual's competency based on a report from a licensed physician. The bill expands this provision to allow an advanced practice registered nurse with expertise in psychiatric care to also conduct the necessary examination and provide a signed statement regarding the individual's competency. This change aims to streamline the process and provide more flexibility in assessing the competency of individuals in these situations.

Additionally, the bill includes a nonstatutory provision that permits reports to be based on examinations by either a licensed physician or an advanced practice registered nurse with psychiatric expertise until September 1, 2026. The amendment is set to take effect the day after publication, while the specific changes to the statute regarding the competency determination will take effect on September 1, 2026. This legislation seeks to enhance the rights of involuntarily committed individuals while ensuring that appropriate medical assessments are conducted.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 51.61(1)(g)3, 51.61