HB 195 Summary

• Lowers the minimum age for discretionary direct file to adult court from 16 to 14 years old for specified serious offenses including murder, sexual battery, robbery, kidnapping, and armed burglary.

• Prohibits state attorneys from filing information against a child on their first offense unless compelling reasons are documented in writing.

• Requires state attorneys to file a written explanation with the court addressing specific criteria when transferring a child to adult court, including offense seriousness, the child's record, rehabilitation prospects, and cost-effective alternatives.

• Allows children prosecuted in adult court to request a "reverse waiver" hearing to return to juvenile court if they can prove by preponderance of evidence that juvenile services would reduce reoffending and serve their best interests.

• Takes effect July 1, 2015.