Hawaii Senate Bill SB949

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/27/23

Caption

Relating To Health.

Impact

If passed, SB949 will significantly influence how mental health services are structured and delivered within Hawaii. The designated forensic facilities will be accountable for managing the treatment needs of individuals who are involuntarily hospitalized or committed under various circumstances. This legislative change is likely to increase the focus on providing specialized psychiatric care for those who pose certain legal and therapeutic challenges, particularly those transitioning from correctional environments to mental health treatment settings.

Summary

Senate Bill 949 aims to amend several sections of Hawaii Revised Statutes related to mental health services, specifically focusing on the establishment and operation of forensic facilities. A key addition is the definition of 'forensic facility' as a psychiatric hospital that assesses and treats individuals who have been forensically committed. The bill mandates that any secure psychiatric rehabilitation programs operated or contracted by the Department of Health must be categorized as forensic facilities, primarily targeting individuals requiring intensive therapeutic treatment and rehabilitation in secure settings.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise regarding the implications of enforcing involuntary treatment in these forensic facilities, as the bill outlines procedures for the apprehension of individuals who leave these facilities without permission. Critics may voice concerns about the civil liberties of patients and the potential for stigmatization of individuals receiving such treatment. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the resources necessary to effectively operate these facilities and the potential financial burden on the state.