Sacramento, CA — Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen’s AB 46 into law. The bill strengthens judicial discretion in California’s Mental Health Diversion Program by establishing a more workable public safety framework for courts when determining whether diversion should be granted.
“The signing of AB 46 into law marks a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen public safety while ensuring mental health diversion continues to serve those it was designed to help.” said Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen. “I am deeply grateful to our co-sponsors, district attorneys, legislative partners and Governor Newsom for their partnership and commitment to ensuring California’s laws reflect accountability and compassion.”
This bill is co-sponsored by California District Attorneys Association and district attorneys’’ offices across California. It reflects years of collaboration among prosecutors, advocates, criminal justice, stakeholders, and legislative partners to strengthen California’s Mental Health Diversion Program while preserving access to treatment.
“Today, Governor Newsom signed AB 46 into law - marking a great day for public safety across California! Our office is a proud co-sponsor of this bill and after this 3-year journey, we thank Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen for her continued leadership throughout the process and the entire legislature for passing the bill with bipartisan support.” said Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho. “AB 46 is now law, closing the dangerous loophole in Mental Health Diversion while allowing diversion for those who truly need it.”
“Today, the Governor signed AB 46 into law, restoring common sense to California’s mental health diversion laws. By allowing judges to use their experience, knowledge, and judgment when evaluating a defendant’s dangerousness, this legislation will protect vulnerable victims of crime and safeguard the communities we serve.” said Greg Totten, Chief Executive Officer of the California District Attorneys Association. “CDAA is grateful to Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen for her tireless efforts in carrying this important piece of legislation and to Governor Newsom for signing this critical reform to public safety.”
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Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen represents the Cities of Sacramento and Elk Grove