CA SB1110

Establishes the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) pilot program, administered by the Board of State and Community Corrections, operating until January 1, 2020, to improve public safety and reduce recidivism through social services instead of incarceration.

Authorizes the board to award competitive grants to up to 3 jurisdictions to establish LEAD programs with minimum standards and funding schedules that prioritize partnerships among law enforcement, prosecutors, public defenders, and social service agencies.

Allows law enforcement officers to divert individuals with probable cause for arrest on low-level drug offenses or prostitution to case managers for assessment and services instead of booking them, with participation voluntary and charges not filed if assessment is completed within 30 days.

Requires services to include case management, housing, medical and mental health care, substance use treatment, employment support, and legal services without requiring abstinence from drugs or alcohol as a condition of participation.

Mandates the board contract with a nonprofit research entity to evaluate program effectiveness and submit findings to the Governor and Legislature by January 1, 2020, comparing outcomes, jail bookings, incarceration rates, and criminal justice costs.