FL S0578

Redefines "child" in juvenile justice law to mean persons aged 12-17 years old (previously under 18), establishing 12 as the minimum age for juvenile justice system involvement.

Prohibits children under 12 years of age from being arrested, charged with crimes, or adjudicated delinquent, establishing they lack the mental capacity to commit crimes.

Restricts custody and arrest of children ages 12-14 to only: failing to appear at court hearings, absconding/escaping from commitment, or preventing imminent threats of serious bodily harm.

Limits custody or arrest of school-enrolled children at school to only: failing to appear at court hearings or preventing imminent threats of serious bodily harm.

Children taken into custody under court orders not explicitly requiring detention must be treated like those arrested for delinquent acts and can only be detained upon specific findings under detention criteria.