MA S1173

Amends Section 35 of Chapter 123 (involuntary commitment for substance use disorders) to require examination by a physician or qualified advanced practice registered nurse upon appearance or apprehension, rather than by a physician, psychologist, or social worker

Limits examination authority to practitioners designated with the authority to admit to a facility

Requires courts to order immediate commitment to a Department of Public Health-designated treatment facility during the pendency of the petition if the examiner determines failure to hospitalize would create a likelihood of serious harm

Aims to reduce wait times and suffering by enabling faster placement into treatment facilities rather than holding individuals in courts or jails while petitions are processed