Confidentiality clarifications needed to 72-hour hold law

People at risk of hurting themselves or others can be held in a treatment facility for emergency care for up to 72 hours.

If the facility discharges the patient within that time, or if they leave, current law requires the facility to alert whichever local agency brought the person to that facility.

HF827, passed 130-0 by the House Thursday, would make sure this is done in compliance with federal confidentiality requirements regarding alcohol and drug use.

The bill now heads to the Senate where Sen. Ron Latz (DFL-St. Louis Park) is sponsor.

Rep. Nick Zerwas (R-Elk River), the bill sponsor, said the need for a “clean up” was brought to the Legislature’s attention by a Ramsey County drug and alcohol treatment facility that receives federal funding.