MA S1176

Eliminates the provision in Massachusetts law (Chapter 123, Section 12, paragraph (e)) that allows any person to petition a court for a 3-day involuntary psychiatric commitment of someone with a mental illness

Removes the current process where district court or juvenile court judges could issue warrants to apprehend individuals with mental illness and order facility commitment for up to 3 days based on "likelihood of serious harm"

Strikes requirements for court-appointed counsel and medical examinations by physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, or psychologists that currently accompany such commitment petitions

Sponsored by Senator Paul W. Mark (Berkshire, Hampden, Franklin and Hampshire) with co-sponsor Senator Michael O. Moore (Second Worcester)

Filed January 17, 2025 and referred to the Judiciary Committee in the 194th General Court (2025-2026 session)