Connecticut House Bill HB06345

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/11
• Refer: 2/14/11
• Report Pass: 3/11/11
• Refer: 3/21/11
• Report Pass: 3/28/11
• Engrossed: 4/27/11
• Report Pass: 4/29/11
• Chaptered: 5/25/11
• Enrolled: 5/31/11
• Passed: 6/3/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Disclosure Of Information To A Parent Or Guardian Of A Youthful Offender In The Custody Of The Department Of Correction.

Impact

The enactment of HB 6345 will directly affect the existing statutes related to the management of youthful offenders within the Department of Correction. Specifically, it alters the way information is disclosed to parents or guardians, enabling them to better understand and participate in the rehabilitation process of their children. Supporters believe that this improved access to information will enhance parental involvement, thereby potentially leading to better outcomes for the youth involved in the system.

Summary

House Bill 6345, known as An Act Concerning Disclosure Of Information To A Parent Or Guardian Of A Youthful Offender In The Custody Of The Department Of Correction, seeks to amend current regulations surrounding the confidentiality of records pertaining to youthful offenders. Under this bill, certain records of youth offenders will remain confidential, but the accessibility of these records is expanded to include parents or guardians until the youth reaches adulthood or is emancipated. The intent is to provide parents with access to relevant information that can aid in supporting and guiding their children through the justice system.

Sentiment

The reception of the bill has generally been positive among lawmakers and advocacy groups focused on youth rehabilitation. Those in favor argue that providing parents with pertinent information is essential for developing a supportive environment for youthful offenders. However, there are concerns about balancing the confidentiality of juveniles with the rights of parents, with some stakeholders apprehensive about the potential for misuse of this information. Overall, the sentiment shows recognition of the need for a careful approach to maintaining privacy while also enabling support for youth.

Contention

Notable points of contention addressed during discussions around HB 6345 revolve around the sensitive nature of the information being disclosed and the potential consequences that such disclosures may have on the youth's future. Critics of the bill caution that while the intent is to aid in rehabilitation, it risks exposing youthful offenders to stigma or retaliation, particularly from peers or communities if sensitive information is shared. The bill seeks to strike a balance between providing necessary parental oversight and protecting the privacy rights of youth offenders.