Appropriates $4.2 million in recurring funds beginning in 2026-27 from the General Fund to the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) to create and sustain local judicially managed accountability and recovery courts authorized by and exempt from the requirements of Article 62 of GS Chapter 7A. Provides that these courts will primarily serve criminal defendants with substance use disorders. Directs these courts to recommend treatment plans and monitor individuals’ progress while under the court’s jurisdiction.

Appropriates another $4.2 million in recurring funds beginning in 2026-27 from the General Fund to the AOC to create and sustain local judicially managed accountability courts as described in the prior section of this act to provide services as described above for criminal defendants with a mental health diagnosis or treatment history.

Effective July 1, 2026.