This bill seeks to improve the forensic mental health care system in Washington State, particularly for individuals undergoing competency evaluations and restoration services, in accordance with the Trueblood settlement agreement. It emphasizes collaboration among local governments and other entities to enhance behavioral health services outside the criminal justice system, highlighting recent investments that have reduced wait times for competency services. Key amendments include the appointment of forensic navigators for individuals referred for competency evaluation for level B and C felonies and misdemeanors, the establishment of a framework for outpatient competency restoration, and modifications to eligibility criteria that remove previous abstinence requirements.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the involuntary medication of defendants during competency restoration, mandates the establishment of a behavioral health diversion fund, and implements a growth cap program for managing inpatient competency orders. It sets penalties for counties exceeding their baseline caps and creates a task force to develop rules for the growth cap system. The bill also outlines procedures for dismissing charges if a defendant is unlikely to regain competency and includes provisions for firearm possession prohibitions following such dismissals. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the competency restoration process while ensuring the safety and health of defendants and the public.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 10.77.074, 10.77.084, 10.77.086, 10.77.088, 10.77.092