Connecticut Senate Bill SB00620

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/19
• Refer: 1/25/19

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Shock Therapy Treatment.

Impact

The proposed bill would create significant changes in the legal requirements surrounding mental health treatment across the state. By making informed consent mandatory for shock therapy, SB00620 highlights the ethical obligations of healthcare providers to ensure that patients fully understand the risks and benefits of such treatments before proceeding. This legal change aims to enhance patient rights and promote a more ethical approach to mental health interventions, particularly in sensitive treatment scenarios.

Summary

SB00620 is a legislative proposal that seeks to amend section 17a-543 of the Connecticut general statutes to prohibit the administration of shock therapy treatments without the informed written consent of the individual. The bill specifically aims to protect vulnerable populations including children, pregnant women, and the elderly from potentially coercive medical procedures. By enforcing consent requirements, the legislation underscores the importance of autonomy and informed decision-making in mental health treatment.

Contention

Debate around SB00620 may arise regarding the implications of restricting certain medical practices. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect individuals from forced treatments that can have severe psychological and physical repercussions. On the other hand, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for this legislation to hinder treatment options for individuals suffering from severe mental health conditions who may benefit from such therapies. The discussion surrounding this bill reflects broader societal struggles with the balance of patient rights and the professional judgments of mental health practitioners.