Senate Committee reviews amendment to S.193 to establish a secure forensic facility for a small population

The Senate Committee on Institutions on March 17 reviewed an amended draft of S.193 that would require the Commissioner of Corrections to establish and operate a locked, secure forensic facility for certain criminal-justice-involved persons who are transferred for evaluation, treatment and care.

The amendment, explained by Office of Legislative Council staff (Katie), would define the forensic facility and require it to operate “in a manner that supports a therapeutic, recovery-oriented, and trauma‑informed environment comparable to a community‑based residential treatment setting” while maintaining appropriate safety and security. It would prohibit refusal of a person ordered to be admitted and would not require clinical or diagnostic prerequisites for admission. The draft also directs the department to employ a clinical services director, set staff qualifications and training, and provide an initial person‑specific treatment plan within 72 hours of transfer, with periodic review as clinically indicated.

Why it matters: supporters said Vermont currently lacks a secure setting tailored to a narrow group of people — primarily those accused of very serious crimes who are found incompetent yet are not eligible for hospitalization — and the amendment attempts to create a clinical, not solely carceral, pathway for their care.

Wellpath testimony and program model

Dr. Robin Hodgeges, senior vice president for mental health at Wellpath, told the committee…