CT SB00246

Expands authority to issue emergency psychiatric certificates to licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, and advanced practice registered nurses who complete specialized training and work with designated programs, in addition to existing police and probate court authority

Requires clinical social workers and advanced practice registered nurses to have minimum eight hours of specialized training through mobile crisis teams, jail diversion programs, crisis intervention teams, or community support programs certified by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Modifies patient communication rights at psychiatric hospitals by allowing mail and telephone call restrictions when patients send obscene, threatening, or harassing communications, with written documentation required in clinical records

Authorizes the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to certify intermediate care beds in general hospitals to provide inpatient mental health services for adults with serious and persistent mental illness

Establishes a behavioral health recovery program to provide substance abuse treatment, psychiatric treatment, and recovery support services for Medicaid-eligible individuals, including residential treatment, peer support, housing assistance, and other support services