SC S0541

Adds statutory definitions for "head injury" (insult to the skull or brain caused by external physical force resulting in impaired cognitive, physical, behavioral, or emotional functioning) and "spinal cord injury" (acute traumatic lesion of neural elements in the spinal canal)

Expands eligibility for involuntary judicial admission to the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs to include persons with head injuries, in addition to those with intellectual disabilities or related disabilities

Requires that head injuries qualifying for involuntary admission must result in impairment similar to intellectual disability, be likely to continue indefinitely, and cause substantial functional limitations in at least two life activities (self-care, communication, learning, mobility, self-direction, independent living, or economic self-sufficiency)

Authorizes petitions for involuntary admission to be filed by spouses, relatives, parents, legal guardians, institutional staff, county social services directors, or prosecutors

Takes effect upon approval by the Governor