Missouri Senate Bill SB557

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

Establishes the "End Hospital Institutionalization Act"

Impact

The bill mandates that when a hospital notifies the juvenile court about a boarded child, the court is required to intervene immediately to ensure the child is placed in an appropriate environment. This aims to prevent unnecessary extended hospital stays for children under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court. Similarly, for individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, or substance use disorders, the bill places the responsibility on the Department of Mental Health to provide case management and necessary treatments without delay. The state will also reimburse hospitals for the costs incurred during such boarding instances.

Summary

Senate Bill 557, known as the 'End Hospital Institutionalization Act', addresses the issue of hospital boarding, which refers to the continued stay of medically stable patients in hospitals or emergency rooms without medical justification. The bill specifically targets situations where patients are unable to be fully cared for outside of a hospital, either due to the inability or unwillingness of their caretakers to ensure their ongoing care or public safety. By establishing a legal framework for these cases, the bill aims to facilitate timely interventions for patient placements and treatments in appropriate settings.

Contention

While the intent of SB557 is to enhance patient care and address the challenges of hospital boarding, there could also be points of contention regarding the adequacy of resources available for treating boarded individuals outside of hospitals. Investigations may arise concerning the capacity of the juvenile court or the Department of Mental Health to manage these cases effectively, particularly in the context of existing mental health and social service infrastructure. Furthermore, concerns about how this bill intersects with public safety and the obligation to protect vulnerable individuals may be discussed during legislative sessions.