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B 26-0390

Prearrest Diversion Task Force Recommendations Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Brooke Pinto

D.C. enacted emergency legislation implementing prearrest diversion programs to redirect individuals from criminal justice system before arrest, expiring January 2026.

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Bill Summary · B 26-0390

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0390 implements recommendations from a prearrest diversion task force in Washington, D.C., creating an emergency amendment to establish or expand programs that divert individuals away from the criminal justice system before arrest. The bill was signed into law on October 23, 2025, as Act A26-0174, with an expiration date of January 21, 2026, indicating it is a temporary emergency measure.

Why is this important

Prearrest diversion programs can reduce unnecessary criminal justice involvement, lower incarceration rates, and redirect individuals toward treatment or social services. For D.C., this represents a policy shift toward addressing root causes of crime and reducing the burden on the criminal justice system, affecting both public safety strategy and municipal budgeting for law enforcement and social services.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Critics may worry that diverting individuals before arrest could compromise victim protection or allow repeat offenders to avoid accountability
  • Implementation costs and clarity: The emergency nature and January 2026 expiration raise questions about funding mechanisms, staffing, and whether temporary measures can effectively establish sustainable programs
  • Scope and eligibility ambiguity: Without detailed bill text readily available, questions likely exist about which offenses qualify for diversion and what safeguards prevent misuse of the program

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

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