This bill proposes to extend the Mental Health Transition Program, which currently is set to be repealed on July 1, 2026, by changing the repeal date to July 1, 2029. The bill also updates the terminology by removing the word "pilot" from the program's name throughout the relevant statutes. Additionally, it clarifies that inmates who are eligible for the program and have not been convicted of certain offenses will be released three months earlier than their earliest release date, based on their assessed risk and needs.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR) will continue to administer the program and contract with private or nonprofit entities to provide mental health transition services to eligible inmates. The department is required to inform inmates with mental health conditions about the program and its requirements nine months prior to their earliest release date. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the support provided to inmates with mental health issues as they transition back into the community.

Statutes affected:
Senate Engrossed Version: 31-291
House Engrossed Version: 31-291
Chaptered Version: 31-291