Connecticut Senate Bill SB00316

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Commitment Of A Person Found Not Guilty By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

Impact

If enacted, SB00316 would amend existing laws regarding how acquittees can apply for discharge from their commitments. It offers individuals the opportunity to challenge their status more frequently by allowing applications for discharge every six months, rather than imposing a longer wait between applications. This change addresses concerns about the lengthy commitments some individuals might face after being found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect, and it aims to enhance their chances of reintegration into society, provided they do not pose a risk to public safety.

Summary

SB00316 is an act concerning the commitment of individuals found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect. The bill aims to clarify the process under which an acquittee can challenge their commitment status and seek discharge from custody. It outlines the roles of both the board and the court in making determinations about the mental health of acquittees and their potential danger to themselves or others. Centralized in this legislation is the focus on ensuring both the rights of the acquittees and public safety, creating a framework for regular evaluations and hearings on their status.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SB00316 arise primarily around the balance between individual rights and community safety. Supporters may argue that the bill provides necessary reforms to ensure that acquittees are not unduly held in commitment without adequate reassessment of their mental health condition. However, opponents may express concerns that the bill could lead to premature discharges of individuals who still require supervision or treatment, thus potentially endangering public safety. Additionally, the roles of the board and state's attorney in evaluating cases may lead to debates about fairness in the process and the potential for bias in determining who should be released.