CA SB1484

Amends Sections 256, 257, and 660.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code to modify the age jurisdiction of the Informal Juvenile and Traffic Court and Expedited Youth Accountability Program from under 18 years to between 12 and 17 years of age, inclusive.

Aligns with the 2018 Senate Bill 439 intent to exclude children under 12 years of age from juvenile justice system involvement, recognizing that pre-adolescent brain development is less formed than adolescents and justice system contact can cause more harm than benefit.

Directs that youth under 12 years old charged with nonviolent crimes be referred to community-based resources, probation departments, health agencies, or local educational agencies rather than informal or expedited court procedures.

Reaffirms the Legislature's support for research-based, trauma-informed, community-based diversion programs that deflect youth from formal justice system engagement at the earliest possible point.

Effective upon passage and signed by the Governor on August 19, 2024.