LANSING, MI (AP)-- The Michigan Senate has passed legislation that lets judges commit adults for involuntarily drug abuse treatment.
The bill passed unanimously Tuesday and will go to Governor Rick Snyder shortly. It changes the state's mental health laws to include substance abuse as a possible cause for involuntary treatment. Mental illness or developmental disabilities are other reasons for involuntary treatment.
A person's family member or a health professional could petition a court for involuntary treatment. The person would be guaranteed an independent expert evaluation and legal counsel. A judge could order treatment for up to 72 hours or until a hearing.
The nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency says the bill would increase costs for state and local governments. Outpatient and detoxification programs cost from $600 to $1,700 per person on average.