MO HB1985

Repeals and replaces sections 632.005, 632.150, 632.155, 632.305, 632.310, 632.315, and 632.320 of Missouri law relating to comprehensive psychiatric services and involuntary detention procedures.

Changes the definition of "mental health coordinator" to require authorization by the probate judge seated in the county where the mental health facility is located, rather than by the director of the department of mental health or their designee.

Modifies the process for refusing release of voluntary patients by requiring a mental health coordinator or licensed physician to sign an affidavit for detention instead of completing an application, and requires the affidavit to comply with involuntary detention requirements under section 632.305.

Changes language throughout to specify that mental health coordinators (rather than peace officers) must present an affidavit to the court when a respondent is detained for evaluation and treatment.

Updates gender-specific pronouns throughout the statute to use gender-neutral language ("or her" and "or himself/herself") where previously only masculine pronouns were used.