New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4039

Introduced
6/27/23  

Caption

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

Impact

Under S4039, individuals eligible for this program must undergo a professional diagnostic assessment confirming their behavioral health needs and must not pose a danger to the community. If accepted into this special probation, participants would engage in a structured treatment curriculum, which is anticipated to reduce recidivism rates. The bill mandates that monitoring agencies must report on the participants’ progress to ensure compliance with treatment and conditions of probation.

Summary

Senate Bill S4039 proposes the establishment of a behavioral health court pilot program in the State of New Jersey, aimed at diverting individuals suffering from behavioral health issues away from incarceration and into treatment programs. The bill's intent is to address mental health conditions contributing to criminal behavior while lessening the burden on state prison facilities by allowing selected offenders to receive the help they need rather than serving time behind bars.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the eligibility criteria outlined in S4039, notably the exclusions for certain serious offenses, including distribution of drugs and violent crimes. Some argue that these criteria could limit the program's effectiveness, as individuals with complex backgrounds in behavioral health might still need support despite prior convictions. Additionally, the permanence of the program's revocation based on violations could deter some individuals from engaging fully with treatment programs, leading to concerns about accessibility and fairness.

Further_information

The Administrative Office of the Courts is tasked with the implementation and monitoring of this pilot program, set to evaluate its impact on criminal sentencing and the judicial process within a designated time frame. The bill specifies it will remain active for three years, providing a structured oversight period to assess its efficacy and potential long-term integration into state law.

Companion Bills

NJ A5719

Same As Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

Previously Filed As

NJ S193

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

NJ A5719

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

NJ A138

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

NJ H3088

Behavioral Health Conditional Dismissal Program

NJ S485

Establishes "Gambling Treatment Diversion Court Pilot Program" with the criminal justice system.

NJ S2272

Establishes "Gambling Treatment Diversion Court Pilot Program" with the criminal justice system.

NJ S337

Establishes pilot program for 24-hour urgent care for behavioral health.

NJ A2794

Establishes pilot program for 24-hour urgent care for behavioral health.

NJ A1700

Creates Mental Health Diversion Program to divert eligible persons away from criminal justice system and into appropriate case management and mental health services.

NJ A2593

Establishes "Pretrial Partnership for Community Support and Services Pilot Program" for certain defendants.

Similar Bills

NJ S193

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

NJ A138

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

NJ A5719

Creates behavioral health court pilot program.

SC H3088

Behavioral Health Conditional Dismissal Program

LA HB552

Updates provisions of law relative to behavioral health treatment

KY SB90

AN ACT relating to legal proceedings and making an appropriation therefor.

CO HB1045

Treatment for Substance Use Disorders

CA SB1400

Criminal procedure: competence to stand trial.