The bill amends Section 123.002 of the Government Code to clarify the eligibility criteria for participation in various drug court programs established by county commissioners or municipal governing bodies. It introduces new language that specifies the types of drug courts that can be established, including those for adults and juveniles involved in offenses related to alcohol or controlled substances. Notably, the bill adds a new subsection (b) that stipulates a juvenile's eligibility to participate in drug court programs for certain conduct is contingent upon the consent of the attorney representing the state, particularly in cases involving firearms or serious bodily injury.

Additionally, the bill modifies Section 123.006(a) to require counties with populations over 200,000 to establish a drug court program under the updated eligibility criteria. The changes in law will apply to juveniles entering drug court programs regardless of when the conduct occurred, and 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)