The department shall develop statewide protocols to be utilized by professional persons and *county designated mental health professionals in administration of this chapter and chapter 10.77 RCW. The protocols shall be updated at least every three years. The protocols shall provide uniform development and application of criteria in evaluation and commitment recommendations, of persons who have, or are alleged to have, mental disorders and are subject to this chapter.

     The initial protocols shall be developed not later than September 1, 1999. The department shall develop and update the protocols in consultation with representatives of *county designated mental health professionals, local government, law enforcement, county and city prosecutors, public defenders, and groups concerned with mental illness. The protocols shall be submitted to the governor and legislature upon adoption by the department.

[1998 c 297 § 26.]

NOTES:

     *Reviser's note: The term "county designated mental health professional" as defined in RCW 71.05.020 was changed to "designated mental health professional" by 2005 c 504 § 104.

     Effective dates -- Severability -- Intent -- 1998 c 297: See notes following RCW 71.05.010.