SENATE BILL REPORT

                            HB 1705

                     AS OF MARCH 23, 1993

Brief Description:  Extending the involuntary treatment act to cover the commitment of chemically dependent adults.

SPONSORS: Representatives L. Johnson, Cooke, Leonard, Riley, Cothern, King and Johanson

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Staff:  Richard Rodger (786‑7461)

Hearing Dates:

BACKGROUND:

The Involuntary Treatment Act provides for the involuntary commitment of both adults and minors who are incapacitated as a result of alcoholism.

Minors are also subject to involuntary treatment for drug addiction, but there is no authority for the involuntary commitment of adults for the treatment of drug addiction.

Under the procedures provided in the law, a designated county chemical dependency specialist may file a petition for involuntary commitment with the superior or district court.  The petition must allege that the person is incapacitated by alcohol or other drug addictions, or has been referred to detoxification twice before in a 12-month period, or, as an alcoholic or drug addict, threatened, attempted or inflicted harm on another and is likely to continue unless committed.  The court may commit the person to an approved treatment program for up to 60 days, upon a finding by clear, cogent, and convincing evidence.  The person may be recommitted for a further period of treatment.

SUMMARY:

Adults incapacitated as a result of chemical dependency, which includes alcohol or drug addiction, are subject to the involuntary commitment procedures for treatment under the Involuntary Treatment Act.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available