MS SB2143

Clarifies that youth court intake officers are employees of the county or municipality with jurisdiction, with salaries paid from county or municipal funds budgeted for the youth court.

Transfers responsibility for maintaining the state central registry of youth court cases from the Office of Youth Services to the Administrative Office of Courts, utilizing the Mississippi Youth Court Information Delivery System (MYCIDS).

Establishes a statewide Adolescent Opportunity Program (AOP) within the Division of Youth Services as an alternative to existing community-based programs, effective July 1, 2016, subject to legislative appropriations.

Requires AOP programs to incorporate evidence-based practices including at least two elements such as academic support, mentoring, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, family counseling, or anger management.

Allows AOP services to be provided through contracts with local mental health or nonprofit community organizations, including programs for non-Medicaid eligible juveniles.