The authority shall develop statewide protocols to be utilized by professional persons and designated crisis responders in administration of this chapter and chapters 10.77 and 71.34 RCW. The protocols shall be updated at least every three years. The protocols shall provide uniform development and application of criteria in evaluation and commitment recommendations, of persons who have, or are alleged to have, behavioral health disorders and are subject to this chapter.
The initial protocols shall be developed not later than September 1, 1999. The authority shall develop and update the protocols in consultation with representatives of designated crisis responders, the department of social and health services, tribal government, local government, law enforcement, county and city prosecutors, public defenders, and groups concerned with behavioral health disorders. The protocols shall be submitted to the governor and legislature upon adoption by the authority.