An Act relative to treatment, not imprisonment

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prioritize treatment over punishment for individuals on probation who struggle with substance use. It requires courts to evaluate a person's need for help if they request it and mandates that those with a diagnosed disorder enter an approved treatment plan instead of facing additional penalties. Under the new rules, a positive drug or alcohol test will not be treated as a probation violation if the person is actively participating in treatment or transitioning between programs. The legislation also allows courts to order further treatment if someone relapses after completing a previous plan, provided they remain compliant with other probation conditions.