MS HB1349

Requires the Division of Youth Services to operate Adolescent Opportunity Programs (AOPs) rather than Adolescent Offender Programs throughout the state, effective July 1, 2016.

Authorizes AOPs to include non-Medicaid eligible juveniles and may be provided through contracts with local mental health or nonprofit community organizations.

Mandates AOPs incorporate evidence-based practices including at least two of the following: academic services, tutoring, literacy, mentoring, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, family counseling, or anger management.

Allows AOP programs to include after-school and weekend programs, job readiness programs, home detention, community service, conflict resolution, and restitution.

Amends Section 99-3-28 to update references from "Adolescent Offender Program" to "Adolescent Opportunity Program" for counselor protections in probable cause hearings; effective July 1, 2015.