MCBRIDE COMMISSION SET FOR CAPE GIRARDEAU

Members of a state commission studying the state's laws relating to the involuntary commitment of people with mental illness will hold a public hearing Tuesday in Cape Girardeau.

Known as the McBride Commission, the panel was appointed in March by Gov. Mel Carnahan to look at ways to enhance existing laws in Missouri regarding civil involuntary mental illness treatment. The commission is holding meetings around the state to get public input.

The meeting will be held from noon to 2:30 at the Holiday Inn.

The commission is studying the concept of civil detention procedures, including the basis for involuntary mental health treatment and the circumstances under which outpatient involuntary mental health treatment should be mandated. The commission will make its recommendations to the governor in September.