DART Act of 2025

The Diversion And Rehabilitation Transformation Act of 2025, or DART Act, aims to reduce crime and recidivism by expanding support for pre-incarceration diversion and rehabilitation programs. It achieves this by amending the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. The bill authorizes the use of existing federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program funds for these initiatives, promoting a more effective and equitable criminal justice system that addresses the underlying causes of crime. Specifically, the DART Act expands the allowable uses of JAG funds to include "diversion and rehabilitation programs" at any phase of the criminal justice process, including pre-arrest and pre-trial interventions. It also explicitly authorizes funding for specialty courts and judicial intervention programs , such as restorative justice initiatives. The bill emphasizes supporting programs that incorporate mental health services, peer support, and restorative justice practices, encouraging the adoption of evidence-based and trauma-informed practices to ensure positive outcomes. To further support these efforts, the bill authorizes the Attorney General to establish a National Diversion and Rehabilitation Clearinghouse . This clearinghouse will centralize information on effective programs, collect and disseminate research, and provide technical assistance to state and local governments. Its functions include identifying best practices, developing training materials, and assisting JAG recipients in implementing successful diversion and rehabilitation strategies, with appropriations authorized for fiscal years 2026 through 2031.