SB152 Summary

• Requires all juvenile courts to implement validated risk assessment tools to guide diversion agreements and disposition decisions for juvenile offenders.

• Prohibits courts from committing juveniles adjudicated of misdemeanor offenses to the Division of Youth Services unless they are determined to be moderate or high risk by the validated assessment, and prohibits commitment of low-risk misdemeanor offenders entirely.

• Mandates the Division of Youth Services to develop a reinvestment plan by July 1, 2020 to redirect savings from reduced secure out-of-home placements into evidence-based community-based programs and services.

• Requires comprehensive written treatment plans within 30 days of commitment that include recommendations for placement, aftercare plans, and post-commitment community services.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2020.