Why 4/5: This bill establishes a new legal framework for behavioral health dockets in district courts for felony cases, creating a significant operational change.
District courts would gain the ability to keep felony cases within their jurisdiction if the accused participates in a behavioral health docket. This change could provide individuals with mental health or substance use challenges an alternative path focused on treatment and support rather than immediate transfer to a higher court.
Cleared committee
Reported from Courts of Justice (14-Y 0-N)
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Rules suspended
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Constitutional reading dispensed (on 2nd reading) (39-Y 0-N 0-A)
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Passed by for the day (Voice Vote)
Third reading
Read third time
Passed a chamber
Passed Senate (40-Y 0-N 0-A)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB245ER)
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Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB245)
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Jurisdiction of district courts in felony cases; specialty dockets, Behavioral Health Docket Act.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 10, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Signed into law
Approved by Governor-Chapter 580 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0580)