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Bill would allow disability diagnoses into criminal proceedings as evidence and for pretrial consideration
Summary
Delegates heard emotional testimony and expert evidence Feb. 11 in favor of House Bill 703, which would permit courts to consider diagnoses of autism and other intellectual or developmental disabilities in criminal proceedings, including expert testimony on whether a diagnosis affected the defendant's mental state and consideration at pretrial release hearings.
House Bill 703 drew testimony from disability advocates, defense and prosecution observers and parents on Feb. 11 as lawmakers considered allowing diagnosis evidence of autism spectrum disorder and intellectual/developmental disabilities in criminal proceedings. Sponsor Delegate Erin Kaufman noted she filed the bill at the request of autism advocacy organizations and said the aim is not to grant impunity but to ensure courts consider how diagnoses can affect intent, mens rea and pretrial suitability.
Disability Rights…
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