Competency Amendments
What changed between versions
Added strict deadlines for competency review hearings, such as requiring a hearing within 15 days of receiving a progress report and setting maximum extension periods (e.g., 9 months for serious felonies, 24 months for aggravated murder) with mandatory reviews.
Mandated that courts order defendants to be returned to their pre-commitment status (like jail or home) immediately upon finding them competent, unless a less restrictive environment is deemed more appropriate.
Created a new requirement for facilities to conduct face-to-face assessments and document that involuntary medication remains medically necessary and the least restrictive option before continuing treatment after a patient is transferred.
Defined key terms for the new medication portability section, including 'covered individual,' 'sending facility,' 'receiving facility,' and 'qualified medical professional' to ensure consistent application across different care settings.
Clarified that civil commitment proceedings must be initiated quickly (within seven days) if a defendant is found incompetent with no chance of recovery, preventing indefinite detention without civil commitment.
