Luzerne Times

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved a bill introduced by Senators Lisa Baker and Amanda M. Cappelletti, aimed at modernizing the state’s problem-solving courts. The legislation proposes these courts be formally recognized as treatment courts.

Senator Baker, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, remarked, "Throughout the years, we have created a variety of specialty courts aimed at resolving issues before incarceration is required. All involve some form of treatment to deal with underlying issues. By standardizing the reference to treatment courts, it will enable the judicial system to better coordinate oversight, administration and funding requests. Better efficiency should benefit the individuals involved in these programs to turn their lives around."

Senate Bill 475 proposes amendments to Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to clarify the structure and purpose of treatment courts, including drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans' courts. These specialized courts are pivotal in addressing issues such as substance use disorders and mental health challenges, offering alternatives to incarceration and aiding participants in rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The legislation is intended as a preliminary step toward implementing a more comprehensive certification process for treatment courts in 2026, aligning with nationally recognized best practice standards.

Senator Cappelletti stated, "Not only does this change align us with almost the entirety of the nation and what other states and the federal government call these courts, but it’s also more reflective of the work these courts do. These courts provide treatment and support to ensure that people don’t come into contact with the criminal justice system again. And that’s what it’s all about, helping people do their best and find a way to thrive."

The bill was unanimously passed by the Senate on April 2 and is currently pending consideration in the House of Representatives.