VT H0724

Allows treating physicians to authorize involuntary psychiatric medication in emergency circumstances when an application for involuntary medication has been filed but a court order has not yet been issued

Requires joint determination by the facility's medical director and the Department's medical director that less intrusive alternatives were considered and the medication is the least restrictive intervention necessary

Limits emergency medication authority to 72 hours, with a maximum of 10 days without a court order; facilities must request an emergency court hearing within 5 business days if medication needs to continue

Mandates documentation within 12 hours of administration, notification to the patient's attorney and advance directive agent, and disclosure to patients of medication details and their right to refuse

Grants civil immunity to health care professionals and facilities administering medication under this section, except in cases of recklessness, gross negligence, or intentional misconduct; effective July 1, 2026