Legislation helping veterans

Restorative Justice helping vets avoid jail

This past saturday./// what advocates hail as an innovative piece of legislation could give veterans facing jail time a second chance.

The minnesota senate and the house just passed a bill known as the veterans restorative justice act.

Kimt news 3's maleeha kamal has a look at a legislative move to help veterans.

When i look at the american flag the first thing i associate with it is veteran and the sacrifices they've made for our country.

This is one reason why senator carla nelson fought for the veteran restorative justice act.

That act would allow minnesota veterans to avoid jail time for low level crimes and instead get probation and treatment.

The act is set up much like drug court to help veterans suffering with service?

"* connected issues.

"the point is to bring that support as they transition to civilian life.

If there are any issues wheather it be with unaddressed menatl health needs or chemical addition any of those type of things we want to make sure that we provide resources to help our veterans.

Veterans would be required to plead guilty and accept conditions of the court, including remaining sober and completing a treatment program.

In rochester maleeha kamal the bill recommends veterans be eligible for the program for lower level, non violent offenses.