An act relating to the transport of individuals requiring psychiatric care

This bill updates Vermont laws governing how individuals needing psychiatric care are transported to medical facilities. It requires that warrants for emergency examinations be based on facts personally observed by mental health professionals or law enforcement, and allows officers to take people into temporary custody only when there is probable cause they pose a risk of harm to themselves or others. The law also mandates that law enforcement vehicles carry soft restraints as the first option, with mechanical restraints used only when necessary for safety. Additionally, the Department of Mental Health must submit a report to the General Assembly proposing ways to improve the warrant process and reduce delays in accessing care.