Signed by Governor Phil Murphy

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes a hospital or emergency department to involuntarily detain a person for up to six days, so long as they get a temporary court order.

Highlights:

• Defines psychiatrists and what the requirements are for being an accredited one (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that a general hospital may detain an individual for up to 72 hours and up to 72 additional hours if they do not receive a court order by the time the first detainment is over (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that a person may be detained in the hospital for 72 hours if they are reevaluated every 24 hours, the person has a high risk of rehospitalization, and potential for self harm (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that screenings can be through telemedicine (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that short term care facilities or psychiatric hospitals may detain a patient for up to 72 hours if the person is at a high risk of self harm or harm to others (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that within 24 hours of intake, an individual on a psychiatric hold will have court proceedings filed to determine next steps (Sec. 1). 

• Establishes timing for the psychiatric hold process (Sec. 1). 

• Requires the department of Human Services and the Department of Health to run a study on appropriate mental health treatment and any recommendations for legislative action (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text