WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 222

Mental health: other; petition for access to assisted outpatient treatment; expand to additional health providers. Amends sec. 473 of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1473).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Hertel and 3 co-sponsors

Michigan expands mental health professionals authorized to petition courts for involuntary outpatient treatment, broadening access beyond physicians and psychiatrists.

referred to Committee on Health Policy
#mentalhealth:other #mentalhealth:recipientrights
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 222

Legislative bill overview

SB 222 expands who can petition for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) in Michigan by including additional healthcare providers beyond psychiatrists and physicians. The bill amends the 1974 Mental Health Code to broaden the professional categories authorized to initiate AOT petitions for individuals with serious mental illness.

Why is this important

AOT is a court-ordered outpatient treatment program for individuals with serious mental illness who may pose risks to themselves or others. Expanding eligibility to petition for AOT could improve access to this intervention by allowing more qualified mental health professionals (such as nurse practitioners, psychologists, or clinical social workers) to initiate the process, potentially reducing gaps in treatment access and crisis intervention.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Expanding who can petition for AOT raises questions about whether additional provider types have equivalent training and accountability standards, and whether this adequately protects individuals' civil liberties against involuntary treatment
  • Implementation clarity: The bill's specific language about "additional health providers" lacks detail—it's unclear exactly which professions qualify, potentially creating inconsistent application across counties
  • Resource implications: Broadening access to AOT could increase court petitions and oversight burden, with unclear funding mechanisms for the expanded system and treatment capacity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.