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Committee backs bill letting solicitors place defendants in pretrial intervention more than once
Summary
The Judiciary Committee gave H.3057 a favorable report after debate over whether allowing solicitors to enroll defendants in pretrial intervention (PTI) multiple times would undercut the program’s purpose; supporters cited reduced recidivism and treatment benefits, while skeptics urged limits and stronger victim input.
The House Judiciary Committee reported favorably on H.3057, a bill that would permit solicitors to consent to a defendant’s participation in pretrial intervention (PTI) more than once, with an explicit bar on repeated PTI for prior domestic-violence convictions.
Mr. Weeks, speaking for the Bridal Law Subcommittee, described the bill as mirroring language that passed previously and said it would lift a statutory bar on repeat PTI entries if the solicitor consents, while preventing a second PTI entry for someone previously in PTI for a domestic-violence charge.
Representative Quinn and other members questioned whether removing limits would defeat PTI’s purpose as a "one-shot" diversion. "Isn't the idea of pretrial intervention that you're giving somebody kind of one shot to avoid the stigma?" Quinn asked. Weeks and other supporters said the solicitor’s discretion and professional judgment provide restraint: the solicitor determines admission and victims can object.
Supporters argued multiple PTI opportunities could reduce recidivism and connect defendants to treatment, counseling and monitoring instead of fines. "It's a pretty good idea of doing something other than just charging them some money for breaking the law," one supporter said, noting PTI can offer counseling and other services not available through a simple fine.
Committee members also raised practical questions about fees and accountability. The committee discussed application and admission fees for PTI—committee comments referenced an initial $100 application fee and an additional $250 fee prior to admission—and whether repeated entries would require fee changes or caps. Members asked whether solicitors statewide and PTI practitioners had been consulted; the transcript records that testimony was split or not provided in prior subcommittee hearings.
After debate the committee voted to give H.3057 a favorable report. Supporters said the bill preserves solicitor discretion and the ability to tailor diversion programs, while skeptics urged safeguards for victims and suggested floor amendments to cap repeat entries if necessary.
The favorable report moves H.3057 to the next stage of House consideration.
