Ricky’s Law: Involuntary Mental Health Treatment Act in Washington State

Understand the origin, purpose, and impact of the Ricky’s Law Involuntary Treatment Act in Washington State on mental health care. Reach out to We Level Up Washington if you need any assistance.


Mental health is crucial to human well-being. While many individuals proactively seek help and treatment for mental health challenges, there are instances where people may be unable or unwilling to seek assistance on their own. In such cases, involuntary treatment laws come into play, providing a framework for addressing the urgent mental health needs of those who may pose a danger to themselves or others.

One significant legislative development is Ricky’s Law, also known as the Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA). Ricky’s Law aims to strike a delicate balance between upholding individual rights and ensuring the safety and well-being of those with serious mental health problems.

We delve into the intricacies of Ricky’s law in Washington State: its origin, purpose, and impact on mental health care in Washington State and potentially beyond. We will explore the criteria that must be met to invoke Ricky’s Law, the procedures involved in obtaining an involuntary treatment order, and the rights of patients subject to involuntary treatment.

If you ever need to invoke Ricky’s Law, i.e., the Involuntary Treatment Act, reach out to We Level Up Washington Mental Health Center, one of the best mental health hospitals in Washington State. We can support you in helping a loved one receive the mental health care they need.

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Ricky’s Law Overview

Involuntary mental health treatment, also known as an involuntary commitment or involuntary psychiatric treatment, refers to the situation when someone receives mental health care without their explicit consent. This usually happens if they are considered a danger to themselves or others due to serious mental health issues. Involuntary treatment is considered an exceptional measure and follows strict legal rules to protect the person’s rights.

The Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA), also known as Ricky’s Law in Washington State, aims to strike a balance between upholding individual rights and ensuring the security and well-being of those dealing with severe mental health issues. The ITA establishes procedures for assessing, admitting, and treating individuals who meet specific criteria for involuntary commitment to mental health treatment facilities.

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Ricky’s Law is named after Ricky Garcia, a young man who suffered for years from substance use disorders and depression and was hospitalized several times due to feeling suicidal. Ricky himself was the one fighting to establish this law with the idea that someone should say no for you when you cannot do it on your own. The law was established in 2018, and it refers to both mental health and substance abuse-related situations.

Contemporary Relevance and Comparisons

Risky´s Law is not a unique act in the US; similar involuntary acts exist in other states. One of the better-known ones is the Baker Act in Florida. The Baker Act, also known as the Florida Mental Health Act, allows for the involuntary examination and temporary detention of individuals who may be experiencing a mental health crisis and are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.

A court gavel representing Ricky’s Law, or Involuntary Treatment Act in Washington State
Ricky’s law in Washington State permits involuntary admission for people struggling with mental health issues if they pose a threat to themselves or the public.

Other states or jurisdictions might have similar laws with different names. Still, in the context of Washington State, the appropriate term is the Involuntary Treatment Act, not the Baker Act.

Criteria for Involuntary Commitment Under Ricky´s Law

The purpose of the Involuntary Treatment Act is to balance the rights of individuals with mental illness with the need to protect public safety and ensure appropriate treatment for those who cannot or will not seek help voluntarily. The criteria for involuntary commitment typically involve a determination that the individual is experiencing a mental disorder that presents a substantial risk of harm to themselves or others and that they are unwilling or unable to accept voluntary treatment.

The criteria for involuntary mental health treatment can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific laws in place. However, some common factors that may lead to involuntary treatment include:

Hands of two people, one of whom is taking notes, with a judge's gavel between them
Ricky’s Law typically involves specific criteria and legal procedures for involuntary commitment.
  • Danger to Self: If a person is at risk of causing serious harm to themselves, such as through suicidal ideation or self-destructive behavior, involuntary treatment may be considered.
  • Danger to Others: When an individual poses a threat to the safety of others, such as by displaying violent or aggressive behavior, involuntary treatment may be necessary.
  • Severe Impairment: Involuntary treatment may be pursued when a person’s mental health condition severely impairs their ability to make rational decisions about their care and well-being.
  • Lack of Insight: If an individual is unable to recognize the severity of their mental health condition and the need for treatment, involuntary treatment may be initiated to protect their health and safety.

Ricky’s law in Washington State has these criteria, but on their own, they do not guarantee that someone will be admitted to a mental health hospital in Washington State. There are procedures in place, and the final word comes from the court.

Procedures Involved in the Involuntary Treatment Act in Washington State

As mentioned above, meeting the criteria is not enough for Risky´s Law to apply. The process of involuntary commitment under Ricky’s Law Involuntary Treatment Act typically involves several steps, which may include:

  • Petition: A concerned person, such as a family member, mental health professional, or law enforcement officer, may file a petition with the court to request the involuntary commitment of the individual.
  • Evaluation: A qualified mental health professional evaluates the individual to determine if they meet the criteria for involuntary treatment. This evaluation may include an assessment of the individual’s mental health status, risk of harm, and capacity to make treatment decisions.
  • Court Hearing: The individual has the right to a court hearing, during which the evidence for involuntary commitment is presented. The court will decide whether there is sufficient evidence to order involuntary treatment.
  • Treatment: If the court approves the involuntary commitment, the individual may be admitted to a mental health facility for treatment. The treatment can include a range of interventions, such as medication, counseling, and therapy.
A judge making a decision based on Ricky's law.
The court makes the final decision based on the state assessment and the Involuntary Treatment Act in Washington.

Rights of Patients

Risky´s Law aims to help both people struggling with mental health and people in their surroundings. Although involuntary and, therefore, an enforced act, Ricky’s law in Washington State still has one´s best interest in mind and protects patients´ rights. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) outlines these rights, and all facilities offering Washington State mental health services must prominently display them.

The RCW states that involuntarily admitted individuals have no different rights than those who are voluntarily admitted. Still, it also outlines conditions under which medications can be administered even without a person’s consent. In no way can professional or medical staff hurt one´s basic human and patient rights, and they must always keep in mind the safety and well-being of those admitted into a mental health institution under Ricky’s Law Involuntary Treatment Act.

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Impact of Ricky’s Law on Mental Health Care in Washington State

The exact data on the impact of Ricky´s Law in Washington State is difficult to obtain. What is known is that within a year from when the law was passed, more than 500 people were involuntarily admitted to mental health residential treatment centers in Washington State. The majority of them have gone on to receive continued treatment. The Involuntary Treatment Act/Ricky’s Law annual report also shows that within a year, a total of 640 individuals were served, thanks to the enactment of Ricky´s Law. 

Risky´s Law undoubtedly affected the work of professional staff. In many cases, involuntarily admitting loved ones happens at the emergency room after a drug overdose, a suicide attempt, or health issues related to addiction. Those who want to enact the Involuntary Treatment Act in Washington State should consult with a healthcare team that then calls for an evaluation for a possible detention under Ricky’s law.

Human rights written on cardboard.
Ricky’s law in Washington State aims to balance upholding individual rights and protecting the public.

Mental Health Statistics and Facts

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals think, feel, and act, as well as how they handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. 

Mental disorders are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. They can significantly impact individuals’ daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. More than that, one´s mental health disorder can impact the lives of their loved ones and, in some cases, the general public

It’s essential to consider the broader mental health statistics to understand the significance and impact of raising awareness about mental health. Here are some key mental health statistics to provide insights into the prevalence and impact of mental health challenges:

Global Prevalence: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in every 8 people (or 970 million people around the world) were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depressive disorders being the most common. This staggering statistic emphasizes the widespread nature of mental health challenges and the need for comprehensive support systems.

Economic Impact: Mental health conditions not only cause personal suffering but also have substantial economic consequences. The World Economic Forum estimates that mental health disorders will cost the global economy $16 trillion by 2030, highlighting the need for investments in prevention, early intervention, and treatment.

Suicide Rates: Tragically, suicide remains a significant concern in the realm of mental health. According to the WHO, approximately 700,000 people die by suicide each year, making it the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15–29. These statistics underscore the urgent need for accessible mental health services and suicide prevention initiatives.

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Involuntary Substance Abuse Treatment

Involuntary substance abuse treatment involves providing addiction treatment to someone who is forced to undergo it against their will. This approach is used when a person has severe substance abuse issues, poses a risk to themselves or others, and is unwilling or unable to seek help on their own.

According to the Washington State Health Care Authority, Ricky´s Law states that people who are a danger to themselves or others, other’s property, or gravely disabled due to a drug or alcohol problem may be involuntarily detained in a secure withdrawal management and stabilization facility.

A person looking out the window.
Ricky´s Law helps those who are not able to help themselves.

Keeping in mind that Ricky´s Law refers to both people with mental health issues and substance abuse problems, facilities that offer dual diagnosis treatment in Spokane WA, like We Level Up Washington, can provide the best support for those who are to be involuntarily committed. The advantages of dual-diagnoses treatments are their understanding of the connection between mental health and substance abuse issues and their ability to treat both of these conditions simultaneously.

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Main Takeaways on Ricky´s Law in Washinton State

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it remains a topic that is often misunderstood and stigmatized. People struggling with mental health issues often face a lack of understanding, discrimination, and social pressure to overcome things on their own. This, unfortunately, frequently results in not seeking professional help when needed.

Untreated conditions can escalate and endanger both the person struggling and people in their social circle. For this reason, an involuntary treatment act in Washington State was passed in 2018. Today, by enacting Ricky’s law, you may help a loved one and prevent a potential catastrophe. 

It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, even when it´s not for yourself. We Level Up Washington can help you if you decide to enact Ricky’s law in Washington State. Contact us through our website or call our helpline at (509) 348-4077 and ensure support for yourself and a struggling loved one.

  1. Can involuntary patients refuse treatment?

    In some cases, involuntary patients may have limited ability to refuse treatment.

  2. How to get someone involuntarily committed in Washington state?

    In Washington State, to get someone involuntarily committed, a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR) assesses if the person is a danger to themselves or others, gravely disabled, or refusing necessary treatment. If criteria are met, the DCR can initiate involuntary commitment through a legal process.

  3. What is the Ryan’s Law in Washington state?

    Ryan’s Law in Washington State allows parents to request an involuntary mental health or substance abuse evaluation for their minor child (under 18 years old). The law enables parents to take action if they believe their child needs treatment but is unwilling to seek help voluntarily. The evaluation can lead to involuntary treatment if criteria are met.

  4. What is the new mental health Law in Washington state?

    The new mental health law in Washington State expands criteria for involuntary commitment and extends the initial detention period for evaluation and treatment from 72 hours to 120 hours. It aims to improve access to mental health care and refine the legal process for involuntary treatment.

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