mental illness; prisoners; diagnosis; treatment

SB 1304 requires Arizona county sheriffs and state correctional facilities to assess prisoners showing signs of mental illness within 24 hours. It mandates immediate continuation of prescribed medications upon jail intake and requires sheriffs to request serious mental illness designation within seven days for diagnosed prisoners. The bill also establishes court procedures for transferring prisoners to treatment facilities when mental health needs require it, including notice and hearing requirements. These provisions apply to all prisoners in county jails or state facilities with diagnosed or suspected mental health conditions. The law focuses on ensuring consistent mental health treatment during incarceration, without altering criminal proceedings.