House Bill No. 1831 amends the Government Code to clarify the eligibility criteria for participation in certain drug court programs. The bill allows commissioners courts or municipal governing bodies to establish various types of drug court programs, including those for adults and juveniles involved in offenses related to alcohol or controlled substances. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision that stipulates a juvenile's eligibility to participate in drug court programs for specific conduct is contingent upon the consent of the attorney representing the state. This includes conduct involving the carrying or use of firearms or resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another person.

Additionally, the bill mandates that counties with populations exceeding 200,000 must establish a drug court program and comply with existing regulations. The changes in law apply to juveniles entering drug court programs regardless of when the conduct occurred, ensuring that the new eligibility criteria are uniformly applied. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 123.002, Government Code 123.006 (Government Code 123)
House Committee Report: Government Code 123.002, Government Code 123.006 (Government Code 123)
Engrossed: Government Code 123.002, Government Code 123.006 (Government Code 123)