Probation.

Existing law authorizes courts to suspend the imposition or execution of punishments in misdemeanor cases and instead enforce the terms of probation for a period not to exceed one year, except for offenses for which existing law prescribes specific probation lengths. This bill would require, in instances where a defendant is charged with a controlled substance offense and granted probation, the court to order a drug treatment program or drug education, if an appropriate program with capacity to accept the defendant has been identified by the probation officer, as specified. The bill would authorize a court to revoke probation and impose a new grant of probation if the court determines the defendant has willfully failed to comply with the treatment program or education. By expanding the duties of probation officers, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.