HB 2513-S - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/09/00)

     Declares an intent of the legislature to enhance and facilitate the ability of the department of corrections to carry out its responsibility of planning and ensuring community protection with respect to persons subject to sentencing under chapter 9.94A RCW by authorizing access to and release or disclosure of necessary information related to mental health services.  This includes accessing and releasing or disclosing information of persons who received mental health services as a minor.

     Recognizes that persons with mental illness have a right to the confidentiality of information related to mental health services, including the fact of their receiving such services, unless there is a state interest that supersedes this right.

     Declares an intent to balance that right of the individual with state interest to enhance public safety.