Bill > A07563

This bill amends the criminal procedure law to allow for the removal of criminal actions to a mental health court in an adjoining county, expanding on existing provisions that already permitted removal to human trafficking or veterans treatment courts. Under this legislation, in counties outside New York City, a court may order the transfer of an indictment and related action to a mental health court in a neighboring county, but only with the consent of the defendant, the district attorney of the original county, and the district attorney of the adjoining county. The transfer is subject to certain conditions, including a five-day waiting period during which the receiving mental health court can choose to accept or decline the case. The bill also updates language to modernize gender-specific references and ensures that the receiving court promptly notifies the defendant, their counsel, and both county district attorneys about the transfer. This change aims to provide more flexible judicial options for handling criminal cases involving mental health considerations, potentially allowing for more specialized and supportive judicial treatment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7563