This bill establishes a committee to study the restoration of competency for individuals with severe mental illness who interact with the probate court on civil commitments or the criminal justice system. The bill acknowledges the increased need for competency evaluations and restoration, citing a 75 percent increase in competency orders in New Hampshire since 2015. It notes that while nationally 81 percent of individuals ordered to inpatient competency restoration treatment return to court, in New Hampshire, less than half do so. The committee is tasked with reviewing existing statutes, examining current needs, and developing improvements with guidance from national resources, especially as New Hampshire plans to build a new forensic hospital.

The committee will consist of members from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and will study methods to improve care for individuals deemed not competent to stand trial, as well as develop a comprehensive restoration program. The committee is empowered to solicit input from a wide range of stakeholders, including health and corrections officials, legal representatives, and mental health organizations. An interim report is due by November 1, 2024, with a final report due by November 1, 2025. The bill also includes a repeal clause for the committee, set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and states that the remainder of the act shall take effect upon its passage, which was approved on July 3, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135:49
As Amended by the House: 135:49
Version adopted by both bodies: 135:49
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 135:49