Bill > S761

This bill amends Chapter 276A of the General Laws to establish a process for judicial diversion of individuals charged with certain drug-related offenses to community-based programs or treatment prior to arraignment. Key provisions include: - Requiring probation officers to confirm eligibility for drug court prior to arraignment and conduct an assessment to determine suitability for diversion. - Establishing a rebuttable presumption of eligibility for diversion for certain misdemeanor offenses. - Allowing the court to stay proceedings for up to 90 days to allow the individual to complete the diversion program, with the ability to dismiss the original charges upon successful completion. - Providing for expungement of records related to the dismissed charges. - Expanding the role of the advisory board under Chapter 276 to assist in coordinating services for defendants in these diversion programs. Overall, the bill aims to provide an alternative path to address substance abuse issues through community-based programs and treatment, rather than traditional criminal justice processing.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S761