Senator withdraws veterans‑treatment court bill for now, citing budget constraints

Senate Bill 96, an effort to expand veterans treatment courts and formalize a model used in other states, was postponed indefinitely at the sponsor’s request during the April 13 Senate Judiciary Committee meeting.

Sponsor explanation: The bill’s sponsor said the policy remains a priority but that the state’s current budget constraints and implementation costs mean there is not a viable path this session. He asked for the bill to be taken up in a future session after more stakeholder work and potential budget allocations.

Committee action: The committee granted the sponsor’s request and postponed SB96 indefinitely; supporters said the approach has evidence of reducing recidivism where properly funded but acknowledged the need for further design and financing work.

Next steps: Sponsor indicated intent to refile or rework the measure next legislative session with a focus on an evidence‑based model and funding plan.