Relates to cases terminated due to mental disease or defect and to establishing reporting obligations regarding such cases

Discharge planning for defendants needing mental healthcare

Beginning January 1, 2027, New York local criminal courts must direct discharge planning for defendants under final observation orders. The institution designated by the Commissioner must provide applicable discharge planning. When clinically needed, planning includes referrals through a single access point or to other outpatient providers. Referrals must respect service eligibility, legal limits, and any required patient consent. The court must dismiss the charges once discharge planning and related referrals are in place or completed, barring further prosecution.