Bill > SB28

This bill amends the existing Treatment Court Program standards by requiring that treatment court programs be available to all eligible California defendants and introducing a new standard mandating a comprehensive substance abuse and mental health evaluation by a drug addiction expert for each defendant. The bill removes the previous requirement for the Judicial Council to revise judicial administration standards by January 1, 2026, and instead focuses on ensuring treatment programs adhere to existing state and national guidelines developed by All Rise (formerly the National Association of Drug Court Professionals). These guidelines emphasize key components such as integrating behavioral health services with the justice system, promoting public safety, identifying high-risk participants, providing evidence-based treatment, conducting frequent drug testing, implementing incentive and sanction systems, maintaining judicial oversight, and ensuring equitable access. The bill defines a "drug addiction expert" broadly to include psychiatrists, psychologists, and other qualified professionals who can conduct comprehensive evaluations. The legislation is classified as an urgency statute, meaning it will take effect immediately to facilitate the implementation of Proposition 36, which allows certain defendants to participate in treatment programs instead of serving jail or prison sentences.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB28