FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 2520

                          C 94 L 00

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Changing terminology in the release from commitment of persons in mental treatment facilities.

Sponsors:  Representatives Schual‑Berke, Parlette and Cody; by request of Department of Social and Health Services.

House Committee on Health Care

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Background:

Individuals are committed to state mental hospitals through legal procedures in superior court.  Once admitted, a physician is involved in medical decisions related to the care of the individual.  Terms used in the legal system and the medical system are not consistently used.

Summary of Bill:

The definitions and uses of legal and medical terms involving individuals served in state mental hospitals are made consistent.  These terms include such terms as "admission," "discharge," "detention," "commitment," and "release."

Votes on Final Passage:

House950

Senate480(Senate amended)

House810(House concurred)

Effective:June 8, 2000