Today marks the start of the internet consultation regarding the proposal to amend the Mandatory Mental Health Act (Wvggz) and the Act on Care and Coercion (Wzd). Everyone can contribute their thoughts on these laws through the internet consultation. The Wvggz and Wzd regulate the rights of people with mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, or dementia in cases of involuntary care or admission. With the amendment of the Wzd and the Wvggz, the government aims to improve the enforceability of the laws, ensuring better protection for patients and reducing the need for involuntary care.

The Wzd and Wvggz are designed to safeguard the rights of patients when they come into contact with involuntary care. The evaluation of the laws revealed that healthcare providers faced challenges in practice. The new proposal aims to make the laws more enforceable. This way, healthcare providers will have more time to offer appropriate care. Involuntary care requires careful procedures, but where possible, it should also allow for customization. Healthcare providers will have more room to incorporate the wishes and preferences of patients and clients into treatment. Proposals are also made to improve the interaction between the Wvggz, the Wzd, and the Forensic Care Act (Wfz), ensuring that individuals receive care in the most appropriate settings.

During the internet consultation until May 26, 2025, everyone (citizens, healthcare professionals, (care) institutions) can make suggestions for improving the laws and regulations. After the consultation ends, all responses will be reviewed, and the legislative proposal may be adjusted accordingly, after which a final proposal will be submitted to the Council of State for advice. A proposal to the House of Representatives will follow as soon as possible.