SB246 Summary

• Probate courts may renew involuntary commitment orders for outpatient treatment of mentally ill persons upon recommendation from the designated mental health facility, if clear and convincing evidence shows the person remains mentally ill and unable to make rational treatment decisions.

• Renewal petitions must be filed at least 30 days before the current commitment order expires by the mental health facility director or designee, including testimony affirming the respondent meets renewal requirements.

• Probate judge must conduct a hearing within 30 days of petition filing with adequate written notice to the respondent, following the same procedures and evidentiary standards as initial commitment hearings.

• Renewed outpatient commitment orders cannot exceed one year in duration; initial orders are limited to 150 days unless they are renewals.

• When outpatient treatment has been renewed, a new petition seeking inpatient treatment is required rather than a revocation petition; no county is financially responsible for outpatient mental health service costs.