OK SB1524

Sheriffs and peace officers are responsible for transporting individuals to designated sites or facilities for examination, emergency detention, protective custody, and inpatient mental health services.

Municipal law enforcement handles transportation within their jurisdiction; county sheriffs handle transportation outside municipalities but within the county.

Sheriffs and peace officers are entitled to reimbursement from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services for transportation services related to minors or adults requiring mental health examination and detention services.

Law enforcement agencies may enter into agreements with other agencies or contract with third-party providers to fulfill transportation requirements, provided third parties meet Department-determined minimum standards that do not exceed law enforcement standards.

The act becomes effective November 1, 2016.