This bill mandates the establishment of a two-year pilot program by the Department of Health and Human Services to create the position of one or more forensic liaisons (FL) to assist in competency proceedings for criminal defendants. The program will operate in either Merrimack or Strafford County and will focus on improving the competency restoration process, which has seen a significant increase in demand over the past five years. The bill requires the committee to study restoration of competency to submit additional legislative proposals by July 1, 2025, and emphasizes the need for adequate funding before the pilot program can be implemented.

The forensic liaisons will serve as neutral parties in criminal cases where competency is an issue, facilitating evaluations, recommending treatment, and sharing progress updates with the court. The bill includes provisions for confidentiality of records and outlines the FL's responsibilities, which include assisting defendants in accessing necessary services and communicating with the court. The program aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of competency restoration in New Hampshire, addressing the current gap in treatment for individuals found incompetent to stand trial. The bill also specifies that the pilot program will not commence until sufficient funding is secured.