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Panel votes to report bill that would close some mental-health and substance-use hearings by default
Summary
The Human Services Subcommittee voted 17-0 to report HB 447, which would make Baker Act and Marchman Act civil hearings closed to the public by default unless a respondent waives privacy or a judge finds good cause to open the proceedings.
Representative Mainy introduced HB 447, saying the bill would close certain civil mental-health and substance-use hearings by default to protect individuals and families from harm when psychiatric or substance-use records become public. "This bill simply closes those loopholes," he said, arguing current dockets can expose sensitive information and deter people from seeking help.
Supporters framed the measure as narrowly tailored. Representative Mainy said the change would allow hearings to be opened where a judge determines a public interest overrides privacy and would permit treating providers to access records to ensure continuity of care. "If you're treating somebody and you want continuity of care, you can do that," he said.
Representative Eskamani voiced appreciation for the bill's attention to stigma and the human element, saying she could understand why people might avoid seeking help if private records become public. No members raised substantive legal or procedural objections during debate.
After debate closed, the clerk called the roll. The committee recorded 17 yays and 0 nays; Chair Mello announced HB 447 was reported favorably.
The committee did not take further action at the hearing; Representative Mainy said he would answer any follow-up questions after the meeting.
