SB 516 Summary

• Allows evidence in certification review hearings to include information about a person's serious medical condition and how it relates to whether they are a danger to themselves or others, or gravely disabled.

• Defines "medical condition" as a serious chronic or acute physical ailment that poses risk of great bodily harm or death within six months without treatment, with specific requirements including physician consultation and informed consent documentation.

• Excludes from "medical condition" substance use disorders, exposure to harms from personal circumstances (such as homelessness or poverty), and medical information more than four years old.

• Requires that when involuntary detention is terminated, the facility's medical director or designee must inform the person that continuing medical treatment is recommended if the person needs ongoing medical treatment.

• Clarifies the bill does not authorize detention longer than allowed for treatment of mental disorder or chronic alcoholism, and does not alter admission policies of psychiatric facilities or Medi-Cal coverage responsibilities.