The bill HB 1589-FN proposes the establishment of a veterans treatment court system within the existing judicial framework, mandating the creation of at least one veterans court in each county or district. These courts will handle cases involving veterans and active duty military members with mental illnesses, substance abuse issues, and other challenges, with the aim of helping them avoid criminal behavior. The bill outlines the 10 key components of a veterans court, establishes the position of a veterans court coordinator, and defines eligibility criteria for participation. Successful completion of the program may lead to dismissal or reduced sentencing, and participants may petition for annulment of their records after a year.

The bill also details the process for counties and districts to receive state matching funds to support the operational costs of veterans courts, with a reimbursement of up to $5,000 per case annually. It establishes the veterans court special account in the state treasury for administrative purposes, requires an annual report on the veterans court program, and includes a provision that suspends the program if the report is not submitted by January 30 of any year. The bill amends RSA 6:12, I(b) to include the veterans court special account fund and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12
As Amended by the House: 6:12
As Amended by the House (2nd): 6:12
As Amended by the Senate: 6:12
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 6:12
Version adopted by both bodies: 6:12
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 6:12