LPS Training Manual

Module One

This module reviews the historical framework of the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this module, the student will be able to describe:
1. Why the LPS Act was initiated.
2. Purpose and intent of LPS Act.

Overview

History:

In the late 1960’s, the California Legislature instituted a groundbreaking bill to change how persons with mental disabilities were to be treated in this State. The law was hailed across the country as the most progressive and humane piece of legislation to date. It was mandated that a mentally disabled person be treated in the least restrictive setting and given the right, just as any person has, to be heard in court when detained involuntarily.

Legislative Intent:

The California Mental Health Act (Sections 5000 to 8000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code), also known as the LPS Act, begins by promoting the legislative intent:
• Most important was: to end the inappropriate, indefinite, involuntary commitment of mentally disordered persons;