An act relating to judicial proceedings for involuntary treatment

This Vermont bill (S 195) requires the Office of Defender General to provide legal representation for individuals involved in criminal cases who are subject to mental health commitment proceedings (e.g., those found incompetent to stand trial or acquitted due to insanity). It also gives courts authority to review and modify orders for treatment outside hospitals (nonhospitalization) if the treatment isn't working or the person isn't complying, potentially switching to hospitalization. The law applies directly to criminal defendants in mental health cases and changes how courts handle treatment plans for up to 90 days. It takes effect July 1, 2026.