This bill, requested by the Criminal Justice Oversight Council, mandates the Department of Justice to establish a pretrial diversion pilot program aimed at nonviolent felony drug offenses. It creates a special revenue account funded by a transfer from the marijuana special revenue account, which will be used exclusively for the pilot program. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for defendants to participate in the program, including the requirement for a chemical dependency evaluation and the absence of prior convictions for violent or sexual offenses. It also details the process for entering into a diversion agreement, which may include conditions such as treatment requirements and compliance with specific behaviors.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the administration of the program, including the development of policies, monitoring of fund expenditures, and annual reporting to the Criminal Justice Oversight Council. It allows for the termination of diversion agreements if conditions are violated and provides a mechanism for participants to petition for the dismissal or expungement of their records upon successful completion of the program. The bill also appropriates $271,950 from the general fund to the Department of Justice for the implementation of these provisions and establishes a termination date for the program of June 30, 2029.