Senate Bill 153 aims to expand the scope of treatment alternatives and diversion programs in Wisconsin by allowing programs funded by Treatment Alternatives and Diversion (TAD) grants to include treatment for individuals with mental illnesses, in addition to those with substance use disorders. The bill amends various sections of the statutes to reflect this broader focus, including changes to the titles and definitions related to the programs. Notably, it removes language that previously limited the programs to those addressing alcohol and drug use, replacing it with provisions that encompass mental health treatment.

Key amendments include the creation of a new definition for mental illness, the requirement for programs to provide services consistent with evidence-based practices in both substance use disorder and mental health treatment, and the establishment of oversight committees for grant-receiving counties and tribes. The bill emphasizes collaboration among various stakeholders, including the Department of Justice, Department of Corrections, and Department of Health Services, to ensure comprehensive support for individuals involved in the criminal justice system who may benefit from these expanded treatment options.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.455(2)(em)(title), 20.455, 20.455(2)(kn)(title), 20.455(2)(kv)(title), 165.95(title), 165.95, 165.95(2), 165.95(3)(a), 165.95(3)(d), 165.95(3)(e), 165.95(3)(g), 165.95(3)(h), 165.95(3)(j), 165.95(5)(a), 302.43, 961.472(5)(b), 961.472, 967.11(1), 967.11, 967.11(2), 973.155(1m), 973.155