HB634 Summary

• Authorizes the City of Tuscaloosa to establish and operate a discretionary pretrial diversion program under direct supervision of the city attorney.

• Offenders charged with misdemeanors, violations, or traffic offenses allegedly committed in Tuscaloosa may apply; those charged with violence offenses, eluding police, crimes involving weapons or child victims, or DUI with serious injury are ineligible.

• Participants must enter a written agreement including voluntary waiver of speedy trial and jury trial rights, guilty plea submission, and compliance with conditions such as substance abuse treatment, education, employment, restitution, and drug testing.

• Application fees are $1,000 for misdemeanors and DUI, $500 for traffic offenses, and $100 for violations; fees may be waived or reduced for indigency and are allocated to the city's general fund with minimum 25% each to law enforcement technology/training and an Indigent Treatment Fund.

• Upon successful program completion, charges are dismissed; termination results in court imposing punishment without being bound by any sentencing agreement, and offenders remain liable for all court costs, restitution, and other fees regardless of outcome.