MN SF3395

Establishes a new statutory procedure (Minnesota Statutes, chapter 611) for assessing defendant competency to stand trial in adult criminal cases, replacing existing Rules of Criminal Procedure for competency determinations initiated on or after July 1, 2023.

Creates the role of "forensic navigator" to provide services including developing dismissal plans, assisting with court examinations, coordinating placement in competency restoration programs, and connecting defendants with mental health, housing, and social services.

Requires courts to appoint "court examiners" (physicians or licensed psychologists) to evaluate defendants' competency and provide written reports within 30-60 days; allows contested hearings on examination findings with defendant presumed incompetent unless court finds competency by preponderance of evidence.

Establishes mandatory dismissal timelines: misdemeanor charges must be dismissed immediately upon incompetency finding; gross misdemeanor charges dismissed 30 days after finding unless prosecutor files notice to prosecute; felony charges dismissed three years after finding unless prosecutor files notice (except murder charges).

Appropriates unspecified amounts from the general fund to the supreme court for forensic navigator services and competency restoration programs in each of the ten judicial districts, based on population and local needs.