HB435 Summary

• Applies exclusively to Houston County and authorizes designated law enforcement agencies to take individuals into protective custody when officers have reasonable cause to believe they are mentally ill and pose immediate danger to themselves or others.

• Officers must transport individuals in protective custody to a hospital or designated treatment facility for evaluation and treatment, and may use reasonable force if the individual refuses transport.

• Individuals must be released within 72 hours (excluding weekends and legal holidays) unless a probate judge orders further inpatient or outpatient treatment under existing Alabama law.

• Protective custody is not considered an arrest and no criminal record may be created; law enforcement officers, hospitals, and treatment facilities are granted civil and criminal immunity when acting in good faith pursuant to the law.

• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.