NM HB339

Expands the definition of "serious youthful offender" to include children ages 15-18 charged with first degree criminal sexual penetration, in addition to first degree murder

Allows serious youthful offenders to be transferred from district court to children's court for juvenile disposition when prosecutors and defense counsel agree it serves justice, the child's welfare, and public safety

Establishes mandatory commitment until age 26 for serious youthful offenders adjudicated in children's court, and for youthful offenders or delinquent offenders convicted of first or second degree murder, first degree criminal sexual penetration, or child abuse resulting in great bodily harm or death

Removes the Department's authority to release juveniles convicted of first degree murder, second degree murder, first degree criminal sexual penetration, or child abuse resulting in great bodily harm or death; the court retains jurisdiction over these cases

Appropriates $1,000,000 from the general fund to the Children, Youth and Families Department's juvenile justice division for fiscal year 2027 implementation, with an effective date of July 1, 2026