Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00114

Introduced
2/16/12  
Introduced
2/16/12  
Refer
2/16/12  
Refer
2/16/12  
Report Pass
3/8/12  
Report Pass
3/8/12  
Report Pass
3/28/12  
Refer
4/9/12  
Refer
4/9/12  
Report Pass
4/16/12  
Report Pass
4/16/12  
Engrossed
4/26/12  
Report Pass
4/28/12  
Report Pass
4/28/12  
Chaptered
5/11/12  
Chaptered
5/11/12  
Enrolled
5/18/12  
Enrolled
5/18/12  
Passed
5/31/12  

Caption

An Act Concerning Services For Veterans In Pretrial Diversionary Programs.

Impact

This bill modifies existing statutes to enhance support for veterans facing criminal charges. By establishing a diversion program, it emphasizes treatment options, which can lead to more favorable outcomes for individuals who might otherwise face significant legal penalties. The Court Support Services Division is tasked with overseeing this program, ensuring that veterans receive appropriate treatment plans catered to their specific mental health needs. This legislative change marks a significant shift towards a more rehabilitative approach in the judicial system, particularly for service members dealing with the mental health repercussions of their service.

Summary

SB00114, known as the Act Concerning Services For Veterans In Pretrial Diversionary Programs, introduces a framework for a supervised diversionary program specifically targeting veterans and individuals with psychiatric disabilities accused of crimes. The legislation aims to provide these individuals with access to tailored support services that prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration. The program will allow eligible participants to complete specialized counseling and education programs, helping them avoid criminal convictions if they successfully meet the requirements set by the court.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB00114 appears to be positive, particularly among advocates for mental health and veteran affairs. Supporters argue that this bill not only addresses the unique challenges faced by veterans but also promotes a humane approach by offering them a chance for rehabilitation instead of punishment. While discussions may have raised concerns about the adequacy of funding for such programs and ensuring proper implementation, the overall tone indicates strong support from various stakeholders, including mental health organizations and veteran advocacy groups.

Contention

Despite the positive sentiment, there are points of contention regarding how effectively the program can be administered. Critics may point to potential challenges in ensuring that all eligible veterans receive the necessary support, particularly when it comes to managing the resources needed to fund these programs adequately. There might also be discussions about the validity of assessments regarding an individual's amenability to treatment, which must be carefully navigated to avoid inequity in the treatment of different defendants.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05500

An Act Concerning Revisions To Various Laws Concerning Ignition Interlock Devices, The Department Of Correction, Judicial Retirement Salaries And Criminal Law And Criminal Procedure.

CT HB05293

An Act Concerning The Department Of Developmental Services' Recommendations Regarding Various Revisions To Developmental Services Statutes.

CT HB05418

An Act Concerning Eligibility For Participation In A Pretrial Family Violence Education Program.

CT SB00212

An Act Concerning The Revisor's Technical Corrections To The General Statutes.

CT SB00414

An Act Concerning Equity In State Employment.

CT SB00344

An Act Concerning Certain Federal Veterans' Benefits And Income Eligibility Determinations For Certain Public Assistance Programs.

CT HB05506

An Act Concerning Families With Service Needs.

CT HB05285

An Act Concerning Veterans' Specialty License Plates And Driver's Licenses For Certain Former Armed Forces Reservists.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT HB05287

An Act Concerning The Fees For Veterans' Specialty License Plates.

Similar Bills

CT HB06699

An Act Concerning Pretrial Diversionary Programs.

CT HB07049

An Act Concerning Pretrial Diversionary Programs.

CT SB00960

An Act Concerning Pretrial Alcohol And Drug Education Programs.

CT SB00443

An Act Concerning Pretrial Alcohol And Drug Education Programs.

CT SB01056

An Act Concerning Allotment Reductions For The Division Of Public Defender Services And Diversionary Programs.

CT HB05594

An Act Concerning Diversionary Programs.

TX SB2186

Relating to pretrial diversion programs funded by the community justice assistance division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the provision of training and technical assistance provided by the division.

TX HB4604

Relating to pretrial diversion programs funded by the community justice assistance division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the provision of training and technical assistance provided by the division.