HB2019 Summary

• Amends Arkansas Code § 20-47-213 to allow licensed mental health professionals, in addition to physicians, to perform initial evaluations for involuntary mental health commitment

• Permits an administrator's designee or licensed mental health professional to conduct initial evaluations when a physician is not immediately available, provided a supervising physician or licensed mental health professional is consulted by telephone

• Requires all persons admitted under these provisions to be seen and evaluated personally by a physician or licensed mental health professional within 24 hours of detention

• Specifies that court-ordered evaluations for involuntary admission must be performed only by a physician licensed in Arkansas or a licensed mental health professional

• Allows initial evaluations to be admitted as evidence in court through verified affidavit even if the evaluating physician or mental health professional is not present