An Act expanding access to mental health services and strengthening risk assessment protocols

This bill expands the number of medical professionals authorized to evaluate and temporarily detain individuals in mental health emergencies to include licensed mental health counselors. Under the new rules, these counselors, along with physicians, nurses, psychologists, and social workers, can apply for a three-day hospitalization if they believe a person poses a serious risk of harm to themselves or others. The legislation also updates existing laws to explicitly allow licensed mental health counselors to participate in police procedures related to mental health crises. By broadening who can initiate these emergency interventions, the bill aims to increase access to mental health services while maintaining established safety protocols.