DeSantis signs “Tristin Murphy Act”, helping people with mental illness in criminal justice system – CBS News

Report on the Signing of the “Tristin Murphy Act” to Support People with Mental Illness in the Criminal Justice System

Introduction

On June 25, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law the “Tristin Murphy Act,” a legislative measure aimed at improving the treatment and support of individuals with mental illness who are involved in the criminal justice system. This law represents a significant step toward addressing mental health challenges within the justice framework, aligning with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Objectives of the Tristin Murphy Act

The Act is designed to prevent tragedies related to untreated mental illness in the criminal justice system by implementing better support mechanisms and interventions. Key objectives include:

1. Enhancing mental health care access for individuals in the criminal justice system.
2. Reducing recidivism by addressing underlying mental health issues.
3. Promoting safer communities through improved management of mental health cases.

Significance in Relation to Sustainable Development Goals

The Tristin Murphy Act contributes directly to the achievement of multiple SDGs:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By focusing on mental health care for vulnerable populations, the Act promotes inclusive health services and supports mental well-being.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The legislation strengthens justice institutions by ensuring fair and humane treatment of individuals with mental illness, fostering peaceful and inclusive societies.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By addressing disparities in mental health treatment within the justice system, the Act helps reduce inequalities faced by marginalized groups.

Expected Impact and Future Outlook

CBS News Miami reporter Jim DeFede highlighted that the law is expected to prevent future tragedies by providing appropriate mental health interventions and support. The Act serves as a model for integrating health and justice systems to better serve individuals with mental illness, ultimately contributing to sustainable and equitable community development.

Summary

• The “Tristin Murphy Act” was signed into law to improve mental health support within the criminal justice system.
• The law aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals, promoting health, justice, and equality.
• It aims to reduce tragedies and improve outcomes for individuals with mental illness involved in legal proceedings.
• The Act represents a progressive approach to integrating mental health care and justice reform.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses mental illness and the introduction of the “Tristin Murphy Act” aimed at helping people with mental illness in the criminal justice system, directly relating to health and well-being.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The focus on mental illness within the criminal justice system and legislative action to prevent tragedies connects to promoting justice and building effective, accountable institutions.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 3 Targets
   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment, and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
2. SDG 16 Targets
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicators for SDG 3
   • Proportion of persons with mental health disorders who receive treatment (implied by the law helping people with mental illness in the criminal justice system).
   • Number of deaths by suicide or mental health-related incidents prevented (implied by the law’s aim to prevent tragedies).
2. Indicators for SDG 16
   • Number of people with mental illness receiving appropriate legal and health support within the criminal justice system (implied by the legislative action).
   • Incidence of human rights violations or tragedies related to mental illness in the justice system (implied by the law’s goal to prevent such tragedies).

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: cbsnews.com