Bill > H1460

This bill aims to reform the competency to stand trial process in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. It establishes a system of community-based programs to conduct competency and criminal responsibility evaluations, available 7 days a week, and allows for observation and examination of defendants at these programs or at designated facilities. 2. It outlines the procedures for determining competency to stand trial, including court-ordered examinations, hearings, and potential commitment to a facility or Bridgewater State Hospital if the defendant is found incompetent. 3. It creates a "forensic navigators" program to guide and advocate for individuals involved in the criminal court system who undergo competency or criminal responsibility evaluations or restoration of competency. 4. It establishes a special commission to review the processes for competency and criminal responsibility determinations, collect data on these evaluations, and recommend reforms to the system. The bill aims to streamline the evaluation process, provide more community-based options, and improve support for individuals navigating the competency to stand trial procedures.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H1460