Big Brothers Big Sisters - Bigs in Blue Mentoring Program
Impact
If enacted, HB 2707 will allocate a total of $1,000,000 in funding to the Department of Legal Affairs and Attorney General for the fiscal year 2022-2023. This financial backing is intended to ensure the effective implementation and continuation of the mentoring program. Supporters argue that providing structured mentoring can yield significant benefits for youth in targeting community safety and personal development.
Summary
House Bill 2707 relates to the funding for the 'Big Brothers Big Sisters - Bigs in Blue Mentoring Program'. This program is designed to mentor youth by pairing them with police officers in a structured mentoring environment. The goal is to strengthen community relations and provide positive role models for children. The bill includes provisions for a nonrecurring appropriation from the state’s General Revenue Fund to support the operation of this program.
Contention
While the bill appears to have unanimous support within the committee, discussions may unearth differing opinions based on priorities for state funding. Some lawmakers may see the merit in prioritizing law enforcement-related social programs, while others could argue for broader funding across various youth initiatives, citing the need for comprehensive support systems for children beyond just the scope of mentorship by police officers. Nonetheless, no major points of contention have been recorded in the voting history, as it passed through the House Justice Appropriations Subcommittee without dissent.