CT SB00147

Allows patients hospitalized in the maximum security service of Whiting Forensic Hospital to be present during searches of their personal possessions when conducted by police officers with probable cause to search for contraband or hazardous items.

Maintains existing patient rights to wear personal clothes, keep personal possessions including toilet articles, access individual storage space, and spend reasonable sums of their own money on canteen expenses and small purchases.

Permits denial of these rights only if the superintendent, director, or authorized representative determines it is medically harmful to the patient, with explanations documented in the patient's permanent clinical record.

Restructures the Whiting Forensic Hospital advisory board to include two new members with psychiatric disabilities, at least one of whom must have received inpatient services in a psychiatric hospital.

Takes effect October 1, 2020 and amends sections 17a-548(a) and 17a-565 of the Connecticut General Statutes.