This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by expanding the involuntary commitment process pilot program to include additional counties. Specifically, it adds Hampshire, Morgan, and Wood Counties to the existing pilot program, which already includes Cabell, Berkeley, and Ohio Counties. The bill also emphasizes the need for the Supreme Court of Appeals, mental health facilities, law enforcement, the Department of Human Services, and the Department of Health Facilities to collaborate in these pilot projects.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Human Services in evaluating alternative transportation providers and establishing standards for their use. It mandates the Secretary to conduct audits of involuntary civil commitment applications to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Furthermore, it requires mental health centers to provide timely evaluations for commitment and to inform individuals about the commitment process and alternative treatment options. The findings from these audits will remain confidential and not subject to subpoena.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 27-5-1b