In a move aimed to drastically improve the state's mental health system, the Senate has voted to approve a significant mental health consent decree. The decree aims to reduce wait times for treatment of defendants declared incompetent to stand trial and is now on its way to the Secretary of State’s Office to be filed post-approval, as reported by Oklahoma Senate.
The resolution, passing by voice vote, breezed through the Senate Floor and marks the last obstacle to be cleared before the decree can be enacted. "This consent decree represents a responsible path forward, ensuring those in custody will serve their sentence while continuing to receive mental health services without unnecessary, costly legal battles," Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, was quoted as saying in the Oklahoma Senate statement. The decree settlement results from a lawsuit against the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services filed back in 2023, alleging violation of due process rights for pretrial defendants.
The agreement requires the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to collaborate with community leaders and experts to improve competency restoration services in the state. Senator Chuck Hall, R-Perry, and others who support fiscal responsibility see the consent decree as a practical solution that "protects Oklahoma taxpayers," as per the Oklahoma Senate. Hall emphasized that avoiding long lawsuits and high court costs is good for the state. The decree also includes better training for forensic health care professionals and a new in-jail restoration treatment program.
