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Bill

S 1744

PORCUPINE Act

119th Congress Introduced by Michael Bennet and 5 co-sponsors

Bill S 1744 requires mental health institutions to meet specific criteria before discharging defendants, ensuring proper assessments and support for their reintegration.

Committee on Foreign Relations. Reported by Senator Risch with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
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Bill Summary · S 1744

Summary of Bill S 1744

Bill Number: S 1744
Title: Imposes certain requirements on institutions housing a defendant due to mental disease or defect prior to the discharge of such defendant
Status: Returned to Senate
Introduced: January 13, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1744 aims to establish specific requirements for institutions that house defendants who have been deemed to have a mental disease or defect. The intent of the bill is to ensure that these institutions adhere to certain standards and protocols before discharging such defendants. This legislation seeks to balance the rights of individuals with mental health issues with public safety considerations.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  • Discharge Requirements: Institutions must meet specific criteria before discharging defendants, ensuring that they are adequately prepared for reintegration into society.
  • Assessment Protocols: The bill mandates comprehensive assessments of the mental health status of defendants prior to discharge, which may include evaluations by qualified mental health professionals.
  • Support Services: Institutions are required to provide information about available support services to defendants being discharged, facilitating their transition and ongoing care.
  • Monitoring and Reporting: The bill may include provisions for monitoring the outcomes of discharged individuals to assess the effectiveness of the discharge process and the support services provided.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected

  • Defendants with Mental Health Issues: Individuals housed in institutions due to mental disease or defect will be directly impacted by the new requirements, as these provisions aim to enhance their care and support.
  • Mental Health Institutions: Facilities that house these defendants will need to implement new protocols and ensure compliance with the bill’s requirements.
  • Public Safety: The bill is designed to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals are adequately assessed and supported before their release.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 13, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Codes Committee.
  • June 4, 2025: The bill was amended and ordered to third reading.
  • June 6, 2025: The committee was discharged, and the bill was committed to Rules.
  • June 11, 2025: The bill passed in the Senate and was delivered to the Assembly.
  • June 13, 2025: The bill passed the Assembly and was returned to the Senate.

Related Bills

  • A 2440: This is the companion bill to S 1744, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the legislative intent.

In summary, Bill S 1744 seeks to improve the discharge process for defendants with mental health issues, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and assessments before reintegration into society. The bill's progress through the legislative process indicates ongoing discussions about mental health and public safety.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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