FL H1245

Creates a work group under the Department of Children and Families to evaluate methods for improving operational effectiveness of the Baker Act and recommend changes to laws, rules, and agency policies.

Work group must evaluate and make recommendations on: timeframe for initial assessment, use of advanced registered nurse practitioners to rescind commitments, telemedicine for patient evaluation and care, 7-day followup care requirements for outpatient providers, and other areas to improve act effectiveness.

Work group consists of 13 categories of stakeholders including representatives from hospitals, crisis stabilization units, law enforcement, judiciary, public defenders, state attorneys, physicians, nurses, and mental health organizations appointed by specified state entities and professional associations.

Work group members must be appointed by June 1, 2014; first meeting before July 1, 2014; draft recommendations reviewed before September 1, 2014; final report submitted by November 1, 2014 to the Secretaries of Children and Families and Health Care Administration and legislative leadership.

Act takes effect upon becoming law.