CA AB3242

Authorizes examinations, assessments, and evaluations for involuntary mental health commitment under the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act to be conducted using telehealth.

Permits telehealth evaluations for 72-hour holds under Section 5150 and for facility admissions under Section 5151, consistent with county-designated facility authority.

Requires face-to-face assessments prior to involuntary detention admission to be conducted either in person or by synchronous telehealth interaction utilizing both audio and visual components.

Allows telehealth-based determinations by physicians and clinical psychologists regarding whether a detained person presents danger to themselves or others, or is gravely disabled.

Defines "telehealth" for mental health commitment purposes as health care delivery via information and communication technologies per Business and Professions Code Section 2290.5.