HI HR163

Requests the Department of Health to convene a task force to evaluate issues surrounding mandatory mental health examinations (MH-1 examinations) under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 334-59 for individuals deemed by law enforcement to be an imminent threat to self or others.

Task force must develop facility designation criteria, review state law for clarification, assess law enforcement protocols, and recommend appropriate distribution of patient transport across healthcare facilities by county.

Task force must assess current capacity for acute mental health evaluation and treatment, identify service gaps and barriers, and recommend a coordinated system of care including crisis services, community services, and outpatient and inpatient options.

Requires participation from the Behavioral Health Administration, Department of Human Services, hospitals, health centers, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, mental health providers, police departments from each county, and other relevant stakeholders.

Deputy Director of the Behavioral Health Administration shall chair the task force and must submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2020 Regular Session convenes.