Mental health: other; hospital evaluations for assisted outpatient treatment; expand. Amends secs. 206a & 429 of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1206a & 330.1429).

This bill expands dispute resolution options for people receiving mental health services in Michigan by mandating that they be offered mediation to settle conflicts with service providers. It requires health programs to inform individuals of their right to mediation when services begin and annually thereafter, while also ensuring that mediators are trained, independent, and knowledgeable about behavioral health laws. The legislation sets specific timelines for the mediation process, requiring it to start within 10 business days and conclude within 60 days, and establishes that any agreements reached are legally binding. Additionally, the bill mandates that contracted mediation organizations report their outcomes to the state department every six months to evaluate the program's effectiveness.