The bill amends 43A O.S. 2021, Section 3-704, to enhance the assessment and evaluation process for individuals arrested for criminal offenses. It introduces mandatory risk, mental health, and substance abuse screenings for these individuals, which must be administered and reviewed by personnel approved by the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. The bill also ensures that individuals who may struggle to comprehend the screening process receive appropriate assistance. Access to the results of these screenings is granted to the court, district attorney, the arrested person, and their counsel.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the admissibility of the screening results in criminal matters, stating that such information cannot be used as evidence unless waived by the defendant or for the purpose of determining sentencing and diversion options for defendants who have pled guilty. The court and district attorney are required to consider the results of the screenings when making decisions regarding sentencing and diversion options. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.