MS SB2842

Authorizes mental health diversion pilot programs in the Second and Eighth Circuit Court Districts as alternatives to traditional criminal sentencing for defendants with mental illnesses.

Establishes eligibility criteria excluding participants with prior violent felony convictions within ten years, current violent crime charges, DUI-related deaths, or drug trafficking convictions.

Requires pilot programs to use evidence-based practices including risk assessment tools, mental health treatment services, ongoing judicial monitoring, and monthly data collection on participant outcomes.

Programs may assess reasonable fees to participants and accept grants, donations, and user fees; funds do not lapse at fiscal year end but remain for program use.

Participants who complete all program requirements have their criminal charges dismissed and records expunged; program sunsets June 30, 2021 unless extended.