Lanterman–Petris–Short Act

California law governing involuntary civil commitment of individuals with mental health disorders

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The Lanterman–Petris–Short Act (LPS Act) is a California law that was enacted in 1967 and went into effect in 1969. It governs the involuntary civil commitment of individuals with mental health disorders in the state of California. The act is named after its co-authors, California State Assemblyman Frank Lanterman and California State Senators Nicholas C. Petris and Alan Short.

Background

Prior to the enactment of the LPS Act, individuals with mental illnesses could be institutionalized indefinitely without due process. The act was part of a broader movement during the 1960s to reform mental health laws and protect the civil rights of individuals with mental health disorders. The LPS Act aimed to end the inappropriate, indefinite, and involuntary commitment of mentally disordered persons, provide prompt evaluation and treatment, and safeguard individual rights through judicial review.

Provisions

The LPS Act established a framework for the involuntary detention and treatment of individuals with mental health disorders. Key provisions include:

• 72-hour hold (5150): Allows for the involuntary detention of a person for up to 72 hours for evaluation and treatment if they are deemed a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or gravely disabled due to a mental disorder.

• 14-day hold (5250): If further treatment is necessary after the initial 72-hour hold, a person may be certified for an additional 14 days of intensive treatment.

• Conservatorship: For individuals who are gravely disabled and unable to care for themselves, a conservatorship may be established to provide ongoing care and treatment.

• Patient rights: The act ensures that individuals have the right to a judicial review of their detention and the right to refuse treatment, among other protections.

Impact

The LPS Act significantly changed the landscape of mental health care in California. It shifted the focus from institutionalization to community-based treatment and emphasized the rights of individuals with mental health disorders. However, it has also been criticized for contributing to the increase in homelessness and the "revolving door" phenomenon, where individuals are repeatedly hospitalized and released without adequate community support.

Criticism and Reforms

Critics argue that the LPS Act does not adequately address the needs of individuals with severe mental illnesses who may not recognize their need for treatment. Efforts to reform the act have focused on expanding criteria for involuntary treatment and improving community-based services.

Also see

• Mental health law
• Involuntary commitment
• Conservatorship (California)
• Patient rights