The bill, H.B. No. 153, amends Section 124.002(a) of the Government Code to clarify the eligibility criteria for service members and veterans to participate in veterans treatment court programs. It establishes that defendants are eligible to participate unless there is good cause shown by an attorney representing the state to deny their participation. The bill specifies that eligibility is contingent upon the court's finding that the defendant is a veteran or current member of the armed forces, including reserves and national guard, who suffers from a brain injury, mental illness, or mental disorder related to their military service, or whose participation is likely to ensure public safety through rehabilitation.

The bill also removes the previous requirement that the attorney representing the state must consent to the defendant's participation in the program. This change aims to streamline the process for veterans seeking treatment and support through the court system, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 124.002 (Government Code 124)