FL S1736

Expands criteria for involuntary examination by removing the requirement that less restrictive means (such as voluntary outpatient evaluation) must be unavailable before law enforcement takes a person into custody.

Allows representatives of the department, certified mental health case managers, legal guardians, or attorneys to electronically submit petitions for ex parte involuntary examination orders to the court.

Requires physicians at hospitals providing emergency medical services to discharge patients who no longer meet involuntary admission criteria to appropriate settings that can meet clinical needs and reduce potential for incarceration, homelessness, or readmission.

Modifies discharge requirements for involuntary patients to mandate discharge to settings able to meet clinical needs and reduce readmission, incarceration, or homelessness after the 72-hour observation period.

Requires voluntary patient discharges to be to locations or settings meeting clinical needs and prohibits placement in homeless shelters or release without appropriate shelter.