AK HB172

Establishes crisis stabilization centers and crisis residential centers as alternatives to arrest and jail, allowing peace officers to deliver individuals in behavioral health crisis to these facilities instead of prosecution

Creates a 23-hour-59-minute maximum hold at crisis stabilization centers and 7-day maximum detention at crisis residential centers for involuntary admission, with court-ordered extensions available when necessary

Expands who can authorize emergency custody to include health officers, mental health professionals, and physician assistants, in addition to psychiatrists and physicians

Requires mental health professionals to consult with parents or guardians before administering psychotropic medication to minors, including evaluation for drug withdrawal and review of family history

Entitles indigent individuals in mental health proceedings under AS 47.30 to court-appointed attorney representation and necessary support services, comparable to criminal defendants