MN HF11

Allows courts to defer sentencing and place military veterans on probation for Severity Level 7, D7, or lower offenses when the crime stems from service-related sexual trauma, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, or mental health conditions.

Requires courts to determine veteran status and service connection before sentencing, using clear and convincing evidence standard; defendant must authorize release of military records which remain confidential and sealed.

Permits courts to order defendants to attend treatment programs preferentially operated by Department of Defense or Veterans Affairs, with collaboration from county veterans service officers to maximize available benefits.

Allows case dismissal upon successful probation completion if defendant meets five criteria including substantial compliance, successful treatment participation, no danger to others, and demonstrated significant benefit from court-ordered services.

Establishes optional veterans treatment courts using county veterans service officers and federal veterans justice outreach specialists; authorizes counties and cities to create pretrial diversion programs for eligible veteran offenders without penalty.

Effective date: April 1, 2021.