This bill allows law enforcement agencies to use federal Byrne JAG grant funds to support deflection and pre-arrest diversion programs that redirect people with substance use disorders or mental health issues away from the criminal justice system and toward treatment instead. The programs described include options like allowing individuals to voluntarily seek treatment without fear of arrest, officers referring people to treatment rather than making arrests, and issuing citations instead of booking people into jail. The bill requires grantees to report back to the Attorney General within two years and annually thereafter, tracking program outcomes broken down by race and gender, as well as reincarceration rates. Additionally, the legislation authorizes $30 million over five years for a single technical assistance grant to help states and local governments develop best practices and launch these programs. The bill is intended to address the opioid epidemic and reduce racial disparities in the criminal justice system by providing law enforcement and first responders with alternatives to traditional arrest and prosecution for low-level offenses.
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