HB 2055, sponsored by Rep. Chris Stearns (D–Auburn), creates a gambling treatment diversion court pilot program at the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). The bill:

• Requires the Administrative Office of the Courts to conduct a gambling treatment diversion pilot program in three counties to allow for deferred sentencing and treatment of persons found to be affected by an addictive disorder related to gambling.
• Establishes eligibility standards and requirements for the treatment program and allows the court to discharge a conviction upon a person completing the diversion treatment program.

AWC has some concerns about the unprecedented nature of a diversion program operated by AOC, but supports state investments into new therapeutic court and diversion programs that could be available in the future to misdemeanor cases and potentially municipal courts.

Dates to remember

HB 2055 is scheduled for a vote in the House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee on January 30 at 10:30 am.