Substitute House Bill No. 5397 amends Section 17a-683 of the general statutes to allow police officers to take individuals incapacitated by drugs or experiencing a medical emergency into protective custody, with the person's consent, and transport them to their home, a treatment facility, or a hospital. The bill replaces gender-specific pronouns with gender-neutral language and clarifies that such custody is not an arrest. It mandates that a medical officer examine the person to determine the need for inpatient treatment and outlines the process for release within 48 hours or once the person is no longer incapacitated, unless they consent to further treatment. The bill also includes provisions for notifying family or next of kin, assisting those without funds in obtaining shelter, and defines relevant terms. There is no fiscal impact to the state or municipalities.

The bill specifies that police officers can assist individuals before emergency medical services personnel arrive and must follow the direction of these personnel after evaluation. Treatment facilities and hospitals are required to admit, refer, or detain individuals needing inpatient treatment or commit them for emergency treatment. The bill also ensures that individuals who do not require emergency treatment are released within 48 hours or when they are no longer incapacitated, and it includes provisions for notifying family or next of kin. Definitions for "drugs," "emergency medical services personnel," and "medical triage" are provided, with "drugs" excluding alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
PS Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 239: