Sturgis-Coldwater News

State Representative Jennifer Wortz has announced the passage of House Bill 4596 in the Michigan House, a measure she says will improve justice for crime victims and increase accountability for defendants.

The bill addresses current procedures regarding defendants found incompetent to stand trial. Under existing law, a 15-month period begins once a defendant is deemed incompetent. If the defendant remains incompetent at the end of that period, charges are dismissed. Due to a shortage of mental health treatment facilities in Michigan, many defendants do not begin receiving treatment until late in this period.

“When a crime is committed, an untreated mental illness should never serve as a scapegoat that prevents victims from receiving justice,” said Wortz, R-Quincy. “My plan would ensure defendants have ample treatment time before needing to stand trial, ensuring victims and the accused get their day in court.”

House Bill 4596 proposes starting the 15-month period only when a defendant actually begins mental health treatment. The change aims to give individuals enough time for treatment so they may be able to stand trial and allow both victims and defendants access to due process.

Additionally, the legislation would let prosecutors ask courts for permission to refile felony charges if a defendant regains competency after charges were dismissed following the original 15-month period.

The bill now advances to the Michigan Senate for further review.