Tennessee House Bill HB0508

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33, relative to mental health treatment.

Impact

The passage of HB0508 would significantly alter the existing framework for how mental health treatment is administered within the state, prioritizing outpatient care under court supervision for individuals determined to be at risk of causing harm. The bill delineates eligibility criteria and establishes processes for filing petitions with mental health courts, which must occur within a set timeframe. This procedural transparency aims to ensure individuals receive necessary treatment while safeguarding community safety by preventing acts of violence before they occur.

Summary

House Bill 0508 aims to amend Tennessee laws related to mental health treatment, primarily focusing on the provision for mandatory outpatient treatment under specific conditions. This bill introduces the concept of a 'substantial likelihood of serious harm to other persons' which is defined in the context of an individual's mental health and their history of threats or attempts of violence. If a person poses a substantial risk of serious harm due to their mental health condition, the bill allows for involuntary outpatient treatment as a preventative measure against potential violence.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB0508 revolve around the balance between public safety and individual rights. Supporters argue that mandatory outpatient treatment could prevent tragedies associated with untreated mental health issues, while opponents express concerns about the potential for abuse of the system, arguing that the involuntary nature of treatment infringes on personal freedoms. Furthermore, there is apprehension regarding the definition of 'substantial likelihood of serious harm,' which could lead to misinterpretation and misuse in judicial proceedings, potentially impacting vulnerable populations.