The bill amends Section 123.002 of the Government Code to expand the eligibility criteria for participation in various drug court programs. It allows commissioners courts and municipal governing bodies to establish drug courts for individuals arrested for or charged with offenses related to alcohol or controlled substances, including those where such substances are suspected to have significantly contributed to the offense. The bill removes previous restrictions that excluded individuals involved in certain violent offenses, such as those involving firearms or serious bodily injury, thereby broadening access to drug court programs.

Additionally, the bill introduces new eligibility requirements, stipulating that participation in drug court programs for specific offenses requires the consent of the attorney representing the state. It specifies that individuals and juveniles charged with offenses involving the use of firearms, force against another person, or serious bodily injury are not eligible for these programs unless consent is granted. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to defendants entering drug court programs regardless of when the offense occurred.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 123.002, Government Code 123.006 (Government Code 123)