SB1257 Summary

• Creates new Article 5 in Title 36, Chapter 18 establishing procedures for involuntary stabilization of "impaired persons" who lack rational judgment due to intoxication, withdrawal, or substance-induced symptoms.

• Allows admitting officers at evaluation agencies to file petitions for court-ordered stabilization periods of up to 5 calendar days following involuntary admission under existing mental health law.

• Requires courts to appoint counsel for impaired persons and grants them the right to a hearing before involuntary detention; impaired persons retain civil and legal rights under existing law.

• Establishes that impaired persons cannot be treated without consent except for emergency seclusion or restraints for safety; evaluation agencies must assess daily and release persons who no longer meet the definition of impaired.

• Specifies that impaired persons cannot be charged for stabilization services and that county attorneys must represent evaluation agencies in court proceedings; services are charged to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Administration or third-party payors.