NJ S1279

Establishes a 26-member Youth Detention Task Force to assess current youth detention conditions in New Jersey and recommend whether county facilities, Youth Justice Commission facilities, or alternative systems would best serve detained youth.

Task force membership includes 4 legislators, 10 ex officio members (Attorney General, Public Defender, Education Commissioner, and others), and 12 public members representing prosecutors, county commissioners, detention associations, and juvenile justice experts.

Factors to be examined include available resources, safety protocols, staff training, rehabilitation opportunities, and security requirements.

The Youth Justice Commission will provide staff and administrative support; members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses.

Task force must submit findings and legislative recommendations to the Governor and Legislature within 18 months of its organizational meeting, after which the act expires 30 days later.