The Minnesota Senate today unanimously approved The Veterans Restorative Justice Act, which aims to divert at-risk veterans toward probation and social service programs instead of jail time when they commit certain less-severe crimes.

“Those of us who haven’t served can’t possibly imagine what our veterans experience during their time in the service, so it is up to us to be ready to help them recover when they get home,” said Senator Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point), co-author of the bill. “We can demonstrate our appreciation by ensuring they have resources they need to begin reintegrating into their communities and finding new direction in life.”

Several counties already have veterans treatment courts that help veterans receive treatment for their less severe crimes instead of prison. The Veterans Restorative Justice Act is not a mandate; it simply provides a statutory set of guidelines for veterans’ treatment in courts.

The bill recommends veterans be eligible for the diversionary program if their offense is below a severity level 7 on the state’s sentencing grid, and that they swear that the offense was committed due to one of several factors: service-connected sexual trauma, a traumatic brain injury, PTSD, a substance abuse disorder, or mental health condition. The court will investigate all claims. Veterans would be required to plead guilty and accept the conditions of the court, including remaining sober and completing a treatment program.