This bill mandates the establishment of a study committee to explore the restoration of competency for criminal defendants, requiring it to submit additional legislative proposals by July 1, 2025. It highlights the increasing need for competency evaluations and restoration services in New Hampshire, noting a significant rise in competency orders over the past five years. The bill emphasizes the necessity of improving the competency restoration process, as current statistics show that fewer than half of individuals ordered for restoration are able to return to court, contrasting sharply with national averages.

To address these issues, the bill introduces a new subdivision to RSA 135, establishing a two-year pilot program for a forensic liaison (FL) position within the Department of Health and Human Services. The FL will facilitate competency proceedings by assisting defendants in obtaining evaluations and treatment, coordinating care, and sharing progress updates with the court. The program will operate in selected judicial jurisdictions and will only be implemented once adequately funded. The FL will also be responsible for reporting on the program's effectiveness and making recommendations for improvements to the competency restoration system in New Hampshire.