In recent years, studies have shown so-called “tough on crime” policies aren’t actually working, and in some cases have shown to actually be counterproductive, especially in regards to juvenile delinquency. The Juvenile Justice Act seeks to remedy this by making several changes in the way the state administers juvenile justice. Among the changes are: removing the mandate that all juvenile offenders be shackled during court proceedings, eliminating life without parole convictions for juveniles to bring the state in line with a recent Supreme Court ruling, and providing training for diversion programs. Supporters of this legislation say keeping kids out of the corrections system gives them a better opportunity to reform.
STATUS: The bill is on the Senate Floor. (S.F. 994)
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