Senate Bill 22-021 Summary

• Establishes a Legislative Oversight Committee with 6 members (appointed by Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, and House Speaker) to oversee treatment of persons with behavioral health disorders in criminal and juvenile justice systems.

• Creates a 31-member Task Force including representatives from judicial, executive, law enforcement, mental health, and community organizations, plus individuals with lived experience in the justice system, to study and recommend policies.

• Task Force must meet at least 6 times annually and submit annual reports by August 1 addressing issues studied, legislative recommendations, implementation of prior legislation, and coordination with other initiatives.

• Defines "behavioral health" to include substance use disorders, mental health disorders, serious psychological distress, and co-occurring conditions, with focus on diversion, treatment, and recovery support.

• Appropriates $108,131 for fiscal year 2022-23 to the legislative department and creates a fund for implementation costs; the article sunsets effective July 1, 2027.