mental illness; prisoners; diagnosis; treatment

SB 1046 requires Arizona county jails to screen all new inmates for mental illness within 24 hours and ensure continuity of prescribed medications and treatments for those with prior diagnoses. It mandates immediate mental health evaluations for inmates showing symptoms, with potential transfer to specialized facilities if deemed necessary for treatment. For state prison inmates, the bill requires a psychiatrist to assess severe mental symptoms within 72 hours and initiate voluntary or court-ordered transfer processes to state hospitals or licensed facilities, including court hearings with legal representation. The law directly affects county jail and state prison inmates with mental health needs, focusing on screening, treatment continuity, and structured transfer procedures to ensure appropriate care.