§ 122C-257.  Working group to address mental health and criminal justice systems.

(a) The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) shall establish a working group composed of representatives from the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), and other stakeholders, to examine the systemic factors contributing to the prevalent "revolving door" pattern in which individuals cycle repeatedly through arrest, detention, or involuntary commitment, only to be released back into the community without sustained stabilization or support. The purpose of the working group is to identify gaps, evaluate current practices, and recommend strategies to interrupt repeated crises and reduce avoidable recidivism, in addition to what has previously been examined and reported pursuant to Section 6.1 of S.L. 2025-27.

(b) Beginning on January 1, 2027, and quarterly thereafter, DHHS shall report on the findings and recommendations of the working group to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services and the Fiscal Research Division.  (2026-38, s. 8(a), (b).)