HB 2552-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Provides that the parent or legal guardian of a minor may consent to voluntary outpatient treatment on behalf of the minor on the recommendation of a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other licensed mental health professional, as defined in RCW 71.34.020, who has significant experience in the treatment of children with mental disorders and has examined the minor. The minor's consent is not necessary.

Provides that a minor may not abrogate consent provided by a parent or legal guardian on the minor's behalf, nor may a parent or legal guardian abrogate consent given by the minor on his or her own behalf.

Requires attorneys appointed for persons pursuant to chapter 71.34 RCW to be compensated for their services as follows: (1) The person for whom an attorney is appointed shall, if he or she is financially able pursuant to standards as to financial capability and indigency set by the superior court of the county in which the proceeding is held, bear the costs of such legal services; or

(2) If such person is indigent pursuant to such standards, the costs of such services shall be borne by the county in which the proceeding is held.

Provides that the administrative office of the courts, in consultation with the department of social and health services and other interested organizations, shall develop standard forms for the statement of the minor's rights and the petition to request withdrawal from or modification of mental health treatment provided to minors under RCW 71.34.530 and 71.34.500. The statement and forms shall be designed to be readily understood and completed by a minor thirteen to seventeen years of age.