S.B. 361 Summary

• Permanently establishes the Community Outreach Court as a division of the District Court of the First Circuit to address nonviolent, nonfelony offenses for homeless and at-risk populations.

• Authorizes the court to hold hearings at community sites where offenders are found, with cases heard only when the prosecuting attorney and public defender have reached plea agreements.

• Requires the public defender to engage a social service or health care professional to identify eligible defendants and develop participant lists, with the prosecuting attorney selecting appropriate cases for plea negotiations.

• Prioritizes alternative sentencing including community service and participation in mental health services, substance abuse treatment, housing, and other social services based on individual needs.

• Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to cover court operations, facilities, equipment, transportation, and permanent positions across the judiciary, public defender's office, and prosecuting attorney's office.