North Dakota HB 1034 Summary

• Replaces terminology "chemically dependent" with "individual with a substance use disorder" throughout North Dakota Century Code sections governing involuntary mental health and substance use treatment proceedings.

• Requires examination reports for involuntary treatment to include evaluations of physical condition, mental status, and substance use disorder assessment, with specific qualifications for examiners (tier 1 mental health professionals and licensed addiction counselors).

• Establishes preliminary hearing timelines requiring hearings within four days (excluding weekends and holidays) for individuals in custody alleged to be mentally ill or with substance use disorders, unless delayed by consent or good cause.

• Permits courts to order up to fourteen days of less restrictive alternative treatment before involuntary hospitalization and requires written notice of right to treatment hearing if continued involuntary treatment is sought beyond fourteen days.

• Makes filing a false petition for involuntary treatment of an individual with both mental illness and substance use disorder without good cause a class A misdemeanor.