2013 House Bill 4697 / Public Act 277

Authorize “mental health courts”

Introduced in the House

May 7, 2013

Introduced by Rep. Margaret O’Brien (R-61)

To authorize a type of alternative judicial proceeding for mentally disturbed or disabled individuals who commit minor crimes, similar to the state “drug courts” for minor drug use crimes. These “mental health” courts would allow dismissal of charges if the individual agrees to and abides by a prescribed mental health treatment program. This bill would require the state court administrative office to establish standards for such courts, and reporting requirements for the courts themselves; it is part of a package comprised of House Bills 4694 to 4697.

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Sept. 12, 2013

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Sept. 18, 2013

Substitute offered

The substitute passed by voice vote

Amendment offered by Rep. Kevin Cotter (R-99)

The amendment passed by voice vote

Sept. 19, 2013

Passed in the House 104 to 0 (details)

Received in the Senate

Sept. 24, 2013

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Nov. 7, 2013

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Dec. 11, 2013

Passed in the Senate 36 to 0 (details)

To authorize a type of alternative judicial proceeding for mentally disturbed or disabled individuals who commit minor crimes, similar to the state “drug courts” for minor drug use crimes. These “mental health” courts would allow dismissal of charges if the individual agrees to and abides by a prescribed mental health treatment program. This bill would require the state court administrative office to establish standards for such courts, and reporting requirements for the courts themselves; it is part of a package comprised of House Bills 4694 to 4697.

Signed by Gov. Rick Snyder

Dec. 30, 2013