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

HD 1470 adds licensed mental health counselors to the list of professionals authorized to request a 3-day emergency hospitalization for individuals at risk of harming themselves or others due to mental health issues. Previously, only physicians, psychologists, and certain other licensed providers could initiate this process, but the bill now includes counselors licensed under Chapter 112. The law requires that when applying for a hold, the professional must explain the risk and communicate with the hospital beforehand when possible. This change directly affects licensed mental health counselors by expanding their emergency authority and improves access to crisis care for individuals in need.