§ 7629 - Legislative intent - Vermont Statutes

§ 7629. Legislative intent

(a) It is the intention of the general assembly to recognize the right of a legally competent person to determine whether or not to accept medical treatment, including involuntary medication, absent an emergency or a determination that the person is incompetent and lacks the ability to make a decision and appreciate the consequences.

(b) This act protects this right through a judicial proceeding prior to the use of nonemergency involuntary medication and by limiting the duration of an order for involuntary treatment to no more than one year. The least restrictive conditions consistent with the person's right to adequate treatment shall be provided in all cases.

(c) It is the policy of the general assembly to work towards a mental health system that does not require coercion or the use of involuntary medication.

(d) This act will render the J. L. v. Miller consent judgment no longer applicable. (Added 1997, No. 114 (Adj. Sess.), § 1.)