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 or municipal governing bodies to establish drug courts for individuals arrested, charged, or convicted of 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 behaviors or serious offenses from participating in these programs. New provisions specify that participation in drug court programs is contingent upon the consent of the attorney representing the state, particularly for offenses involving firearms, the use of force, or serious bodily injury.

Additionally, the bill mandates that counties with populations over 200,000 must establish a drug court program and comply with specific judicial directives. The changes in law will apply to defendants entering drug court programs regardless of when the offense occurred, and the act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to drug court programs, potentially benefiting a broader range of individuals seeking rehabilitation.

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