SB 5257-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Finds that, despite explicit statements in statute that the consent of a minor child is not required for a parent-initiated admission to inpatient or outpatient mental health treatment, treatment providers consistently refuse to accept a minor aged thirteen or over if the minor does not also consent to treatment.

Declares an intent that the parent-initiated treatment provisions, with their accompanying due process provisions for the minor, be made fully available to parents.

Provides that a minor child shall have no cause of action against an evaluation and treatment facility or provider of outpatient mental health treatment for admitting or accepting the minor in good faith for evaluation or treatment under RCW 71.34.052 or 71.34.054 (as recodified by this act) based solely upon the minor's lack of consent if the minor's parent has consented to the evaluation or treatment.