Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB17

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Expanding the treatment alternatives and diversion programs. (FE)

Impact

The bill's provisions intend to amend how jurisdictions may receive state grants to develop treatment programs. By ensuring that funding can support a broader range of mental health concerns, the legislation aims to standardize treatment access across the state. This not only fosters greater cohesion among services offered at the local level but also encourages collaboration among various stakeholders, including health services, social services, and law enforcement. As such, the bill has the potential to reshape how counties approach the treatment of offenders with underlying mental health issues, pushing them towards more rehabilitative rather than punitive measures.

Summary

Assembly Bill 17 aims to expand and enhance treatment alternatives and diversion programs for individuals with substance use disorders and mental illnesses. The bill modifies existing statutes to allow for the creation of programs that not only focus on drug and alcohol treatment but also include services for any individual suffering from a mental illness. This legislative change is backed by statistics that suggest treatment-oriented approaches can significantly lower recidivism rates and improve public safety outcomes. Through this bill, the Department of Justice will be responsible for administering grant funds to counties and tribes that implement these programs.

Contention

Despite its supportive framework, Assembly Bill 17 is not free from contention. Critics may argue that expanding such programs could strain state resources, particularly if local jurisdictions are unable to sustain these initiatives without further financial assistance. Moreover, there are discussions about the potential for unequal implementation across different counties, which could lead to disparities in access to treatment. Proponents will need to address these concerns and provide a clear strategy for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of these newly funded programs, to ensure that they meet the intended objectives of reducing recidivism and improving public safety.