I’ve gone to several Drug Court graduations.

It’s very inspiring to be among people who are successfully dealing with their addiction, instead of spending time in jail.

Shortly before the legislative session began, I met with two people who deal with the Drug Court on a regular basis.

“What can we do to improve the court’s operation?” I asked them.

I then introduced House Bill 842, which would require that funding be maintained at $2.5 million annually and that participants’ bus fare be subsidized so that they can get to their treatment.

Last Friday, I learned that language was being considered for the budget bill that would require a study of outcomes for individuals with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and substance abuse disorders who come into contact with the courts.

This would further my objective.

I withdrew my bill.