AN ACT CONCERNING ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION IN A PRETRIAL FAMILY VIOLENCE EDUCATION PROGRAM.

This bill expands eligibility for a pretrial family violence education program to include individuals charged with certain crimes involving risks to children, provided the court finds good cause to allow their participation. Under the new provisions, defendants must agree to have their trial timeline paused and waive their right to a speedy trial while attending the program and complying with court-ordered conditions for up to two years. If a participant successfully completes the education program and meets all requirements, the court may dismiss the charges and erase the associated criminal records. The legislation also requires courts to notify victims when a defendant requests placement in the program and gives them a chance to be heard before the decision is made.