Governor Kaine Signs Legislation in Response to Virginia Tech Shootings

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today ceremonially signed several General Assembly bills that arose from the Virginia Tech tragedy of a year ago and that will improve protections for our citizens and treatment for people with mental illness.

“The Virginia Tech tragedy reminded us that we must address the mental health needs of those in our family, among our friends, and in our community,” Governor Kaine said. “Working with members of the General Assembly, we will make significant investments in our mental health system and the bills before me today will establish standards for the system and increase accountability.”

Among the bills before the Governor today were the Omnibus Mental Health bills, House Bill 499 (Hamilton) and Senate Bill 246 (Howell). These bills, which will be corrected with technical amendments, include comprehensive changes in the mental health system and incorporate many of the bills listed below. The bills address the following:

* Commitment criteria;
* Disclosures of mental health information between parties (in various Code sections relating to juvenile and adult commitment, jail transfers, and the Health Records Privacy statute);
* Definition of “responsible person” who may initiate the involuntary treatment process;
* Evidence that can be considered in issuing emergency custody orders (ECO), temporary detention orders (TDO), and commitment orders;
* 2-hour ECO extension for good cause;
* Feedback from community services boards to the petitioner or physician if a TDO will not be recommended;
* Pre-hearing independent examination and CSB preadmission screening;
* Required elements of independent exam;
* Requirements for examiner and CSB to attend and participate in hearings;
* Procedure for transfer of cases between courts, when necessary;
* New Mandatory Outpatient Treatment (MOT) requirements and procedures;
* And, confidentiality of court records.

Statement of Governor Kaine on the Virginia Tech Settlement

April 10 —Governor Timothy M. Kaine today issued the following statement regarding the settlement with the families and victims of the Virginia Tech tragedy:

“On April 16, 2007, an unthinkable tragedy took place on the campus of Virginia Tech. For several months the victims and victims’ families, their counsel, Virginia Tech, and officials of the Commonwealth have worked with serious commitment and diligence toward a reasonable resolution and response to the legitimate needs, interests and concerns arising out of that horrific event.

“A proposal for resolution has now been accepted by a substantial majority of the victims and victims' families. At this time, details will remain confidential as the parties move forward to finalize and formalize their agreement. There will be no further announcement or discussion of this matter until that has been accomplished. Ultimately, the agreements will be public.”

Source: Governor of Virginia office