0340-0203 Drug Diversion and Drug Prevention Education Programming

For the implementation and administration of drug diversion programs for nonviolent young adult drug offenders; provided, that individuals using heroin or other opiate derivatives who are arrested for nonviolent crimes shall be eligible for such programs; provided further, that individuals charged with violent crimes shall not be eligible for participation in a drug diversion program; provided further, that a district attorney's office may contract with any organization to administer a drug diversion program or an education program; provided further, that not less than $1,000,000 shall be expended for the Services Over Sentences program to address the ongoing public health and safety crisis at the intersection and surrounding area of Massachusetts avenue and Melnea Cass boulevard; provided further, that such programs shall be designed in consultation with the department of public health; provided further, that eligible drug diversion programs shall offer pre- or post-arraignment programs for non-violent drug offenders to provide candidates the opportunity to receive comprehensive substance use treatment services in lieu of prosecution through the traditional court process; provided further, that treatment plans may include, but shall not be limited to, inpatient, outpatient and step-down recovery services; shall not be denied access to the program based on the inability to pay; provided further, that not less than 60 days before the distribution of funds, the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association shall submit a report to the house and senate committees on ways and means detailing: (i) the amount to be given to each district attorney's office; (ii) the methodology for the distribution; and (iii) the administration and cost of the program; and provided further, that no funds from this item shall be expended on the administrative costs of the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association