Bill > S09429

This bill amends the Criminal Procedure Law to allow courts to refer individuals charged with a crime to mental health screening or hospital admission if they appear to have a mental illness that is likely to result in harm to themselves or others. The bill repeals a provision related to the release for mental health assessment and evaluation and involuntary commitment pending release. It also adds new requirements for the court's handling of such cases, including provisions for confidentiality of clinical records and information, discharge and aftercare planning, and limitations on revoking release conditions based solely on noncompliance with treatment. The overall purpose of the bill is to provide a mechanism for connecting individuals with mental health issues who are charged with crimes to appropriate mental health services and assessments.