A bill for an act relating to testimony at involuntary commitment hearings by physician assistants and advanced registered nurse practitioners.(Formerly HSB 85.)

House File 313 (HF313) is a bill that allows physician assistants (PAs) and advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs) to testify at involuntary commitment hearings on behalf of the licensed physicians or mental health professionals who examined the individual in question. To do so, the PA or ARNP must submit an application containing sworn statements that they witnessed the examination, reviewed the examination report, and that the original examiner is unable to attend the hearing.

Supporters of HF313 argue that it enhances the efficiency of the involuntary commitment process by allowing qualified healthcare providers, such as PAs and ARNPs, to testify in place of physicians or mental health professionals who conducted the initial examination. This flexibility is seen as beneficial in situations where the original examiner is unavailable, ensuring that hearings proceed without unnecessary delays.

Critics of HF313 express concerns about the potential for reduced quality of testimony, as PAs and ARNPs may not possess the same level of expertise as licensed physicians or mental health professionals. They worry that this change could impact the thoroughness and accuracy of information presented during involuntary commitment hearings, potentially affecting the outcomes for individuals involved.