Maine § 51. - Exemption to written informed consent requirement for mental health services and substance use disorder treatment during public health emergency
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 51. — Exemption to written informed consent requirement for mental health services and substance use disorder treatment during public health emergency, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51.. Exemption to written informed consent requirement for mental health services and substance use disorder treatment during public health emergency
1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.
A. “Licensed facility” means a facility licensed under Title 5, section 20005, subsection 6, paragraph B or Title 34‑B, section 1203‑A. [PL 2021, c. 637, §1 (NEW).]
B. “Public health emergency” means a federal public health emergency declared pursuant to 42 United States Code, Section 247d or a state public health emergency declared pursuant to section 802 or Title 37‑B, chapter 13, subchapter 2. [PL 2021, c. 637, §1 (NEW).]
2. Informed consent. The department may not require a licensed facility to obtain written informed consent from a person receiving mental health services or substance use disorder treatment from the licensed facility during a public health emergency. A licensed facility shall obtain consent from a person receiving mental health services or substance use disorder treatment during a public health emergency; such consent may be obtained through verbal, electronic or written means.
3. Rulemaking. The department shall adopt rules to implement this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 51.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 51. cover?
Section 51. ("Exemption to written informed consent requirement for mental health services and substance use disorder treatment during public health emergency") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 51.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 51." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 51. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.