HI SR64

Attorney General requested to assess the impact of diverting drug possession offenders from the criminal justice system to drug treatment programs instead of criminal prosecution.

Assessment must evaluate effects on the criminal justice system, drug treatment program resources, and public safety.

Attorney General directed to consult with police, prosecutors, public defenders, judges, corrections administrators, public health experts, treatment providers, and legal service providers.

Report due to Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 Regular Session, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation.

Report must address number of offenders eligible for diversion, resource impacts, treatment services needed and costs, and public safety implications including whether excluding offenders with violent histories would reduce risks.