Grand Canyon Times

Legislation aimed at enhancing public safety and providing necessary services to individuals deemed dangerous, severely mentally ill, and incompetent to stand trial has passed the Arizona Senate with bipartisan support. The bill, known as SB 1604 and sponsored by Senator Hildy Angius, seeks to address a critical gap in the state's legal and mental health systems.

Currently, individuals identified as dangerous are often placed in unregulated facilities or released into communities where they may pose risks. Under the new legislation, courts will assess whether an individual is severely mentally ill, poses a threat to public safety, or is incompetent to stand trial. If these conditions are met, charges against the individual will be dismissed without prejudice, and they will be committed to a secure mental health facility for treatment.

Senator Angius stated: "With the current lack of facilities for severely mentally ill individuals, mental health professionals and law enforcement agencies are left with limited options, often resorting to temporary solutions that fail to adequately address the issue at hand." She added that SB 1604 would provide a much-needed safety measure for Arizonans by ensuring a safer process for all involved.

"If someone is found to be incompetent to stand trial and is a danger to themselves or others," Angius continued, "we cannot allow them to remain untreated in environments where they pose a risk. This legislation ensures that individuals who need intensive mental health care are placed in facilities equipped to address their needs."

Angius expressed her satisfaction with the bill's progress through the Senate and its upcoming consideration by the House. She also anticipates its eventual signing into law by the governor: "Arizonans deserve to live in an environment where their safety is not compromised, including those who are severely mentally ill. I am pleased to see this legislation advance through the Senate and head to the House for consideration. I look forward to the governor signing this bill when it hits her desk."