CA SB1227

Establishes a military diversion program allowing courts to postpone prosecution of misdemeanor charges for defendants who are current or former U.S. military members suffering from sexual trauma, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, or mental health problems related to military service.

Requires defendant consent and waiver of speedy trial rights to participate in pretrial diversion, with diversion periods not to exceed two years.

Directs courts to place eligible defendants in treatment programs, with preference given to programs specializing in veteran mental health treatment, including those operated by the Department of Defense or Veterans Affairs.

Requires responsible agencies to file progress reports with the court and prosecutor at least every six months; upon successful completion, the arrest is deemed to have never occurred and cannot be disclosed without defendant consent, except to peace officer applicants.

Establishes state reimbursement procedures for local county mental health authorities and prosecutors for costs incurred under this program.