HB 309: Hospitals; temporary detention for testing, observation, or treatment.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Temporary detention in hospital for testing, observation, or treatment. Provides that while seeking the issuance of an order for temporary detention in a hospital for testing, observation, or treatment, or an extension of such order, the person who would be subject to such order and is currently subject to an order issued pursuant to current law shall remain in the custody of the facility where he is located for up to two hours, and any security personnel shall ensure that such person does not leave the facility while such person is unable to provide informed consent. The bill states that the person shall be permitted to leave the facility if (i) such order is not issued; (ii) the physician determines the person does not meet the requirements for temporary detention; or (iii) the person's guardian or person legally authorized to make an informed decision on his behalf refuses to consent to continued detention, testing, observation, or treatment. The bill also provides that any licensed health professional, licensed hospital, including a hospital licensed by the Department of Health pursuant to relevant law, or security personnel assisting a licensed health professional shall have no liability arising out of a claim to the extent the claim is based on a lack of consent to the detention of a person when such professional or hospital is seeking the court's or magistrate's authorization for such detention.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. April 13, 2026Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0588)
2. April 13, 2026Approved by Governor-Chapter 588 (effective 7/1/2026)
3. March 14, 2026Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
4. March 14, 2026Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 14, 2026
5. March 13, 2026Signed by President
6. March 13, 2026Signed by Speaker
7. March 13, 2026Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB309)
8. March 13, 2026Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB309ER)
9. March 13, 2026Enrolled
10. March 6, 2026Senate amendments agreed to by House (97-Y 0-N 0-A)
11. March 4, 2026Passed Senate with amendments Block Vote (40-Y 0-N 0-A)
12. March 4, 2026Engrossed by Senate as amended

Showing 12 most recent of 36 actions. Full history