If a report submitted under Section 55.35(b) states that a child is unfit to proceed as a result of mental illness and that the child meets the criteria for court-ordered mental health services under Section 55.05, the director of the public or private facility or outpatient alternative setting, as appropriate, shall submit to the court two certificates of medical examination for mental illness, as described by Subchapter A, Chapter 574, Health and Safety Code. On receipt of the certificates, the court shall:

1. (1) initiate proceedings as provided by Section 55.66 for temporary or extended mental health services, as provided by this chapter and Subchapter C, Chapter 574, Health and Safety Code; or
2. (2) refer the child's case as provided by Section 55.68 to the appropriate court for the initiation of proceedings in that court for temporary or extended mental health services for the child under this chapter and Subchapter C, Chapter 574, Health and Safety Code.

Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1477, Sec. 14, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.

Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1166 (S.B. 1585), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2023.