Bill > H1806

This bill aims to expand substance abuse treatment options for individuals facing non-violent drug charges by modifying existing laws related to drug dependency and treatment. It defines key terms such as "addiction specialist" (a licensed professional qualified to provide substance abuse treatment), "bureau" (the state's bureau of substance abuse services), "second drug offense" (a new drug charge when the defendant has previously been assigned to treatment), and "successful completion of treatment" (meeting the requirements of a personalized treatment plan). The bill clarifies who can be considered a "drug dependent person," defining it as someone whose functioning is impaired by drug use or who is at risk of becoming dependent. It also establishes procedures for court-ordered examinations by addiction specialists to determine if a defendant is drug dependent and would benefit from treatment, with provisions for staying court proceedings while treatment is considered or underway. The bill outlines specific circumstances under which defendants charged with drug offenses, including certain sales offenses, can be assigned to treatment facilities, and addresses situations where treatment may not be immediately available. It also clarifies that a positive drug test alone will not be considered a violation of probation terms and that the act does not apply to convictions or sentences that occurred before its effective date.