A bill that could help people with mental illness stick to their treatment plans passed the state Senate Tuesday.
House Bill 1697 would allow doctors or family members to request court-assisted treatment for some people with mental illnesses.
The measure would only apply to adults who have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness who are unlikely to survive safely in the community without intervention. They must have a history of noncompliance with treatment and been hospitalized twice in three years.
State Sen. AJ Griffin said it would provide a tool that helps people protect themselves and others by making sure they comply with treatment by ensuring they report to a court.
The bill was named for Labor Commissioner Mark Costello, who was killed in August 2015.
Cathy Costello, Mark Costello’s widow, was “overjoyed” at the bill’s approval.
“I am very proud of our distinguished men and women of the senate for recognizing the need to help our fellow Oklahomans who suffer with mental illness who have deteriorated to the point where they need help,” she said.
Mark Costello’s son has been charged with first-degree murder.
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