Connecticut Senate Bill SB01070

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/25
• Refer: 1/22/25

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Shock Therapy Treatment.

Impact

If enacted, SB01070 would mark a significant shift in the regulatory landscape surrounding mental health treatments in the state. The bill would reinforce the principles of autonomy and consent in healthcare, ensuring that individuals maintain control over the treatments they receive. This change aligns with broader movements toward patients' rights, particularly in mental health care, where invasive treatments have faced increasing scrutiny due to historical abuses and ethical concerns. The proposed legislation could lead to improved oversight and reevaluation of existing practices surrounding shock therapy in mental health facilities.

Summary

SB01070 is a legislative proposal aimed at prohibiting the use of shock therapy treatments without the explicit informed consent of the individual. Specifically, the bill seeks to amend section 17a-543 of the general statutes to ensure that vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly, are protected from involuntary administration of such therapies. The proposed legislation emphasizes the need for individuals to provide written consent before undergoing shock therapy, reflecting a growing sensitivity towards patient rights and modern ethical standards in medical treatment.

Contention

Discussion around SB01070 may revolve around the balance between protecting patients and the potential implications for treatment modalities in the mental health field. Proponents of the bill are likely to argue that it is a necessary measure to prevent coercion and protect the rights of some of the most vulnerable individuals in society. However, opponents may contend that restricting the use of shock therapy could hinder effective treatment options for patients with severe mental health issues, complicating the decisions of healthcare providers who may feel restricted in their ability to offer comprehensive care. The bill raises important questions about the ethics of consent and the role of coercive treatment in mental health services.