SB 6684-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Finds that standardized chemical dependency assessment protocols are necessary in court-involved chemical dependency cases to improve the accuracy of assessments and treatment plans. Background information, such as criminal history, the police report, and a drug screen urinalysis, must be available to chemical dependency professionals and probation assessment officers at the commencement of the assessment of individuals in court-involved chemical dependency cases.

Provides that, by July 1, 2004, the director of the division of alcohol and substance abuse of the department of social and health services, or the director's designee, shall within existing resources convene and chair a work group to develop written protocols for the production of accurate chemical dependency assessments and appropriate treatment plans. The work group shall also determine the process by which such information will be made available in a timely manner to chemical dependency professionals and probation assessment officers.

Requires that, by November 1, 2004, the work group shall finalize the written protocols and submit them to the legislature and the governor.