The proposed bill updates current statutes by establishing the Veterans' Specialty Court Grant Program and the Veterans’ Treatment Court Fund, which will provide financial support to municipalities and counties for the development and enhancement of veterans' court programs. The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) will administer this program, focusing on rehabilitation and collaboration among stakeholders, as well as the creation of individualized treatment plans for justice-involved veterans. The bill also mandates the AOC to work with relevant parties to establish best practices and standards, while outlining specific reporting requirements for both grantees and the AOC.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions requiring the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR) to identify incarcerated veterans and share pertinent data with the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services (ADVS). It emphasizes the confidentiality of this information and delineates the responsibilities of both departments in providing outreach and support for veterans before and after their release. The bill also ensures that the resources from the Veterans’ Treatment Court Fund are continuously appropriated and clarifies the definition of "veteran" for the purposes of the program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-200
House Engrossed Version: 12-119.06, 41-1610.04, 22-601
Chaptered Version: 12-119.06, 41-1610.04, 22-601