Bill > A01699

This bill amends the Criminal Procedure Law to allow courts to release individuals charged with a crime under non-monetary bail conditions in order to receive mental health screening or be admitted to a hospital due to a mental illness that is likely to result in harm to the individual or others. The bill also repeals a provision related to the release for mental health assessment and evaluation and involuntary commitment pending release. The bill provides specific guidelines for the court to direct individuals to mental health treatment, including allowing the court to expeditiously employ available resources for mental health screening, order the individual's removal to a hospital or crisis stabilization center, and ensure appropriate discharge and aftercare planning. The bill also protects the confidentiality of clinical records and information related to the mental health assessment and treatment.