NH HB480

Directs the committee to study restoration of competency to submit additional legislative proposals by July 1, 2025, following its November 2024 report.

Establishes a 2-year pilot program through the Department of Health and Human Services creating forensic liaison positions to assist criminal defendants in competency proceedings, operating in Merrimack or Strafford county superior and circuit courts.

Forensic liaisons will coordinate competency evaluations, recommend treatment services, assist defendants in accessing restoration services, and provide progress updates to courts and parties.

Implementation is contingent on receiving adequate funding, with estimated costs of $1.02 to $1.25 million annually for FY 2026-2027 from the General Fund, covering four new positions and administrative expenses.

Addresses New Hampshire's lack of formal competency restoration system, where only 44% of defendants had competency restored in 2019 compared to the national average of 81%.