Idaho’s mental health court programs have helped hundreds of people rebuild their lives, but new state budget cuts could put those programs at risk.
One Twin Falls father credits mental health court with saving his life. After the death of his younger brother, he spiraled into depression and alcoholism. During a crisis, he attempted to take his own life and was charged as a felon in possession of a firearm. Instead of a lengthy prison sentence, he was given the opportunity to participate in mental health court. Two years later, he is sober, employed, engaged to be married, and raising his children. He says the program changed everything.
Idaho operates about 70 treatment courts statewide for individuals struggling with addiction and serious mental health conditions. These courts require strict supervision, counseling, frequent testing, and regular court appearances. Participants are held accountable, but they are also given structured support to address the underlying issues that led to their charges.
The results speak for themselves. A 2019 evaluation showed that mental health court graduates had a significantly lower felony recidivism rate—31% compared to 45% for those who did not complete the program. In fiscal year 2025 alone, hundreds of people graduated from treatment courts across the state. National research shows that treatment courts save taxpayer money by reducing incarceration and long-term social costs.
Now, however, funding cuts approved by Idaho lawmakers threaten these programs. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has already reduced peer-support services, and additional cuts from the Legislature could force the judicial branch to scale back treatment courts even further. Because mental health courts are not constitutionally required, they may be among the first programs reduced if funding is not restored.
For many defendants, mental health court can mean the difference between prison and recovery. As criminal defense attorneys in Idaho, we see firsthand that many cases are driven by untreated mental illness or substance use—not criminal intent. When courts invest in treatment instead of incarceration, communities are safer and families stay together.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Idaho, exploring alternatives like mental health court could make all the difference. Early legal advocacy is critical to protecting your future and pursuing options that focus on rehabilitation, not just punishment.