HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Senate recently passed legislation introduced by Sens. Lisa Baker (R-20) and Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17) to modernize and strengthen Pennsylvania’s problem-solving courts, now proposed to be formally recognized as treatment courts.
“Throughout the years, we have created a variety of specialty courts aimed at resolving issues before incarceration is required,” said Baker, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee. “All involve some form of treatment to deal with underlying issues. By standardizing the reference to treatment courts, it will enable the judicial system to better coordinate oversight, administration and funding requests. Better efficiency should benefit the individuals involved in these programs to turn their lives around.”
Senate Bill 475 would amend Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to define the structure and purpose of treatment courts more clearly, such as drug courts, mental health courts and veterans’ courts. Pennsylvania’s specialized courts play a critical role in addressing substance use disorders, mental health challenges and other underlying issues that frequently contribute to criminal behavior. These courts provide structured, treatment-focused alternatives to incarceration, helping participants rehabilitate and reintegrate into our communities. While this is a small change in statute, it marks a significant step forward as Pennsylvania prepares to implement a more robust certification process for treatment courts in 2026 – one that is rooted in nationally recognized best practice standards and better reflects the mission of these courts.
“Not only does this change align us with almost the entirety of the nation and what other states and the federal government call these courts, but it’s also more reflective of the work these courts do,” said Cappelletti. “These courts provide treatment and support to ensure that people don’t come into contact with the criminal justice system again. And that’s what it’s all about, helping people do their best and find a way to thrive.”
The bill passed the Senate unanimously on April 2 and now awaits consideration in the House of Representatives.
CONTACT: Jennifer Wilson (Baker)