HB 340 Summary

• Authorizes law enforcement officers from designated agencies to take individuals age 17 and older into protective custody when the officer has reasonable cause to believe the person is mentally ill and an immediate danger to themselves or others.

• Requires officers to transport individuals in protective custody to a designated treatment facility for evaluation and treatment, with medical professionals required to sign written findings within 24 hours and contact the judge of probate.

• Mandates release of individuals within 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) unless a judge of probate orders further inpatient or outpatient treatment under existing mental health commitment procedures.

• Provides immunity from civil liability to law enforcement officers, hospitals, physicians, medical providers, and treatment facilities acting pursuant to the act and under state agent status.

• Applies only to counties where the judge of probate and county commission certify adequate implementation provisions and designated treatment facilities exist; repeals conflicting local laws and similar mental health protective custody programs.