Bill > S1678

This bill makes several key changes to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health services in Florida: This bill revises the definition of "mental illness" to exclude certain conditions like dementia, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse. It adds new definitions for "neglect or refuse to care for himself or herself" and "real and present threat of substantial harm" related to involuntary examination criteria. The bill requires that respondents with a serious mental illness be informed of the essential elements of recovery and be provided assistance accessing a continuum of care upon discharge. It prohibits the court from considering substantive information in a transfer evaluation unless the evaluator testifies at the hearing. The bill revises the requirements for when a person may be taken to a receiving facility for involuntary examination, and requires the state attorney to represent the state as the real party of interest in involuntary proceedings, subject to legislative appropriation. Overall, this bill aims to make changes to streamline the processes and criteria related to involuntary mental health and substance abuse services in Florida.

Health and Social Services, Justice

Children, Families, and Elder Affairs (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2020/1678