Any adult person detained in such hospital, who is in such condition of mind as to render him competent to make such application shall at his request be exempt from medical or psychiatric treatment, upon filing with the superintendent a statement that he depends upon prayer or spiritual means for healing in the practice of the religion of a well-recognized religious church, sect, denomination, or organization. In case of an adult not found to be in such condition of mind, a similar statement may be filed on his behalf by another and thereupon similar exemption shall be granted. Any minor detained in such hospital shall be exempt from medical or psychiatric treatment if his parent or guardian or conservator shall file with said superintendent an affidavit stating that he relies upon prayer or spiritual means for healing in the practice of the religion of a well-recognized religious church, sect, denomination or organization.

(Amended by Stats. 1979, Ch. 730.)