Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1237

Introduced
4/17/25  

Caption

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for problem-solving courts; and, in sentencing, further providing for modification or revocation of order of probation.

Impact

The passage of HB 1237 would have a significant impact on the state's judicial system by potentially increasing the number and effectiveness of treatment courts. By providing a framework for these courts, the bill aims to reduce recidivism rates among those struggling with addiction or mental health issues. Furthermore, the bill's provisions for the establishment of a veterans track within these treatment courts underscores the state's acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by veterans within the judicial system. This could lead to more tailored support for this population, which is crucial given the high rates of substance abuse and mental health conditions among veterans.

Summary

House Bill 1237 seeks to amend Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically focusing on the establishment and administration of problem-solving treatment courts. These courts aim to provide specialized jurisdiction for defendants who are enrolled in court-supervised treatment programs, which may include veterans courts, drug courts, and mental health courts. The bill emphasizes the need for local courts to adopt rules for the governance of these courts while ensuring consistency with state regulations. This amendment is intended to improve access to treatment resources for individuals struggling with various issues that may lead them into the judicial system.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1237 appears to be generally positive, especially among advocates for criminal justice reform and mental health awareness. Supporters view this bill as a proactive step toward providing a more rehabilitative approach to individuals within the legal system. However, there may still be contention regarding funding and resources for these treatment courts, which could hinder their effectiveness if not adequately addressed. Overall, the bill is seen as a constructive move towards enhancing judicial procedures related to treatment and rehabilitation.

Contention

While the overarching aim of HB 1237 is to better serve individuals in the judicial system through treatment courts, the implementation may face challenges. Concerns could arise regarding the allocation of state funds to establish these courts, especially in light of the existing budget constraints. Additionally, there may be debates about the adequacy of resources and training necessary for judges and court personnel to effectively administer these specialized courts. Furthermore, discussions may ensue about the potential for disparities in treatment access across different judicial districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB412

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for problem-solving courts; and, in magisterial district judges, further providing for jurisdiction and venue.

PA SB838

In sentencing, further providing for order of probation, for conditions of probation and for modification or revocation of order of probation and providing for probation review conference.

PA HB747

In organization of appellate courts, further providing for reassignment of matters; and, in organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for original jurisdiction and venue.

PA SB253

Establishing the Nonnarcotic Medication Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program; in organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, providing for court assessments for substance use disorder treatment; in other criminal provisions, further providing for supervisory relationship to offenders; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for supervisory relationship to offenders.

PA SB361

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for courts of common pleas.

PA SB948

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for courts of common pleas.

PA SB333

In bonds and recognizances, providing for cash bail prohibited, for conditions of release and for collection and report of pretrial release data; in sentencing, further providing for modification or revocation of order of probation; and abrogating regulations.

PA HB1503

In sentencing, further providing for sentencing generally.

PA HB999

In authorized disposition of offenders, further providing for sentence for murder, murder of unborn child and murder of law enforcement officer; in arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction, further providing for the offense of arson and related offenses; in jurisdiction of appellate courts, further providing for direct appeals from courts of common pleas; in post-trial matters, further providing for postconviction DNA testing and for disposition and appeal; in sentencing, further providing for sentencing procedure for murder of the first degree; and, in execution procedure and method, repealing provisions relating to issuance of warrant.

PA HB231

In post-trial matters, further providing for eligibility for relief, providing for postconviction review for veterans with service-connected mental health disability and further providing for jurisdiction and proceedings; and, in sentencing, further providing for sentencing procedure for murder of the first degree.

Similar Bills

CA AB395

Substance use treatment providers.

AZ HB2745

Court-ordered treatment; enhanced services

AZ SB1310

Court-ordered treatment; enhanced services.

AZ HB2944

Inpatient treatment days; computation; exclusion

CA SB349

California Ethical Treatment for Persons with Substance Use Disorder Act.

AZ HB2041

Mental health; voluntary evaluations; payment

CA AB1230

Gambling disorder prevention.

IA HF479

A bill for an act establishing a veterans recovery pilot program and fund for the reimbursement of expenses related to providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment to eligible veterans.(See HF 574.)