Bill > HB480

This bill directs a study committee to submit any further legislative proposals regarding the restoration of competency to stand trial for criminal defendants by July 1, 2025, and mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services, once sufficient funding is secured, establish a two-year pilot program to create the role of one or more forensic liaisons (FLs). These FLs will act as neutral intermediaries between the prosecution, defense, and court in criminal cases where a defendant's competency is questioned, assisting with evaluations, treatment recommendations, access to services, and communication about the defendant's progress. The program will operate in specific courts and require FLs to have relevant educational backgrounds or experience, with their duties including facilitating attendance at evaluations, helping defendants obtain necessary services, providing recommendations, reducing barriers to treatment, and sharing progress updates with the parties and the court, all while maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=788&inflect=2