The bill establishes a pilot program for a gambling treatment diversion court, aimed at providing treatment for individuals affected by gambling addiction who have committed crimes related to their disorder. The program will be administered by the administrative office of the courts and is set to begin accepting participants by July 1, 2027. It outlines the requirements for successful completion of the program, including restitution payments, progress reports, and the involvement of qualified mental health or substance use disorder professionals. The court will have the authority to defer sentencing for eligible individuals, allowing them to undergo treatment instead of serving immediate penalties.
Additionally, the bill specifies the criteria for eligibility to participate in the treatment program, excluding individuals convicted of certain violent crimes or those with multiple prior convictions. It also details the process for monitoring participants' progress, the potential for extending treatment periods, and the conditions under which a conviction may be discharged upon successful completion of the program. The language emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation and support for individuals struggling with gambling disorders while ensuring accountability through court oversight.