Senate Bill No. 2042 Summary

• Replaces references to specific medical professionals (physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists) throughout North Dakota Century Code with standardized "tier" mental health professional classifications (Tier 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3, and 4).

• Defines Tier 1 mental health professionals as psychiatrists or psychologists (Tier 1a) and physicians, physician assistants, or advanced practice registered nurses (Tier 1b).

• Changes language from "person" to "individual" in multiple criminal and civil code sections for consistency in terminology.

• Updates social worker licensure requirements in Section 43-41-07 to streamline qualification standards for applicants licensed in other jurisdictions.

• Modifies procedures for criminal proceedings involving mental health evaluations, involuntary treatment orders, and commitment hearings to reflect the new tiered mental health professional system.