Committee backs bill giving solicitors discretion to allow repeat pretrial intervention

The House Judiciary Committee favorably reported H.3057, a bill that would permit solicitors to allow a person to participate in pretrial intervention (PTI) more than once, with a stated exception for prior PTI for criminal domestic violence.

Mr. Weeks summarized the measure, saying the bill "would lift" a statutory bar on repeat PTI "if the solicitor consents." He noted the measure mirrors language that passed last year and leaves the decision to the solicitor's discretion.

Members questioned whether allowing unlimited repeat PTI under solicitor discretion would defeat the program's purpose. Mr. Quinn asked whether unlimited PTI would undercut the "one-shot" nature of diversion; Mr. Kennedy and others said they were concerned about open-ended use and the need to protect victim input. Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Bannister pushed back, saying solicitors are accountable and that PTI can provide treatment and reduce recidivism compared with a simple fine.

Committee discussion included procedural questions about who signs PTI admissions, whether fees apply on repeat admissions, and whether solicitors had testified before the subcommittee. Mr. Quinn noted fees and Mr. Rutherford confirmed PTI application fees are set by statute; one member cited a $100 initial application fee and a $250 fee prior to admission in some localities.

After debate, the committee recorded a favorable report on H.3057 by voice vote.

The bill retains a specific prohibition on allowing a second PTI where the earlier PTI was for criminal domestic violence.