Mental health experts discuss changes to Baker, Marchman Acts [Video]

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla — Many experts are saying the changes to the Baker Act and Marksman Act are long overdue. They are the legal process for committing people dealing with mental health issues or substance abuse.The Baker Act deals with mental health. The Marksman Act with substance abuse. Starting now, there are new guidelines that make it easier for people to be involuntarily evaluated.

There is now more flexibility for courts to meet treatment needs, and when children are involved, it is now required that parents are notified.

“I think anytime mental health is being discussed, I think anytime funding is being allocated, it’s a good thing,” said Natasha A. Pierre.

Pierre deals with her own mental health struggles but now educates others on how to cope.

“This is something people are actively dealing with and it’s increasing. Anxiety, depression, the grief. The overwhelm, the stress that people are dealing …