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Bill Summary · SB 2033

Summary of Bill SB 2033: Relating to Excited Delirium

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 2033 aims to address the issue of "excited delirium," a controversial term often used to describe a state of extreme agitation and confusion that can occur in individuals, particularly in the context of law enforcement encounters. The bill seeks to clarify the classification of excited delirium as a cause of death, establish guidelines for incident reporting, and improve the handling of such cases by law enforcement officers.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  • Definition of Excited Delirium: The bill proposes a formal definition of excited delirium to standardize its use in medical and legal contexts.

  • Cause of Death Classification: It aims to establish excited delirium as a recognized cause of death in medical examinations and autopsies, which may impact how such cases are investigated and reported.

  • Incident Reporting Requirements: Law enforcement agencies would be required to document instances where excited delirium is suspected or identified during encounters with individuals. This includes detailed incident reports that outline the circumstances leading to the encounter.

  • Training for Law Enforcement: The bill may include provisions for training law enforcement officers on recognizing the signs of excited delirium and appropriate response measures to ensure the safety of both officers and individuals in crisis.

Affected Parties

The primary stakeholders affected by this bill include:

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Officers will need to adapt to new reporting requirements and training protocols.

  • Medical Examiners and Coroners: The classification of excited delirium as a cause of death will impact how they conduct autopsies and report findings.

  • Individuals in Crisis: The bill aims to improve outcomes for individuals experiencing excited delirium, potentially leading to better handling of such situations by law enforcement.

  • Public Health Officials: The bill may influence public health policies related to mental health crises and emergency response.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on January 10, 2024.

  • Legislative Actions:

    • January 17, 2024: The bill was referred to the Health, Human Services, and Public Safety Committee (HHS/PSM) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM), and it passed its First Reading.
    • January 24, 2024: The bill was re-referred to the HHS/PSM and the Judiciary and Government Committee (JDC) for further consideration.

Conclusion

Bill SB 2033 represents a significant step towards addressing the complexities surrounding excited delirium in law enforcement and medical contexts. By establishing clear definitions and reporting requirements, the bill aims to enhance the understanding and management of this condition, ultimately improving safety and accountability in law enforcement practices.

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

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