An Act to amend Section 35 of M.G.L. Ch. 123

This bill expands who can petition a court for the commitment of someone with an alcohol or substance use disorder. It adds Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (Levels I and II) and Licensed Social Workers to the existing list of eligible petitioners, which previously included police officers, physicians, spouses, blood relatives, guardians, and court officials. The change modifies Section 35 of Chapter 123 of Massachusetts law to include these two new professional categories. The bill takes effect upon passage.