HB0082 Summary

• Prohibits courts from committing minors to the Department of Juvenile Justice if the offense would be a misdemeanor if committed by an adult.

• Requires courts to evaluate community-based alternative programs before committing minors for Class 3 or Class 4 felonies, considering the best interests of the minor and public.

• Maintains existing law requiring commitment to Department of Juvenile Justice for minors age 13+ convicted of first degree murder, with no parole for 5 years from commitment date.

• Clarifies procedures for court-ordered commitment including appointment of the Director of Juvenile Justice as legal custodian and transmission of court records to the Department.