Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the responsibility for transport for individuals in custody who are experiencing mental distress.

Highlights:

• Requires peace officers utilize telemedicine when such capability is available for initial contact, to have a person requiring treatment assessed by a licensed mental health professional employed or under contract with the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (Sec. 1).

• Defines “initial contact” to include, but not be limited to the following, and specifies that it shall not include an individual self-presenting at a hospital, medical, or mental health treatment or crisis center (Sec. 1):

• Contact with an individual in need of examination; or

• Emergency detention or protective custody made by a law enforcement officer.

• Establishes that once an individual has been presented to a treatment facility by a transporting law enforcement officer or has self-presented, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services shall be responsible for any subsequent transportation pending completion of the examination, emergency detention, protective custody, or inpatient services (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this act shall take effect November 1, 2020 (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text