Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1779

Introduced
4/25/23  
Refer
4/25/23  
Refer
4/25/23  
Engrossed
3/28/24  

Caption

An Act to Prevent Youth Involvement in the Juvenile Justice System by Establishing a Strength-based, Discretionary Juvenile Needs Assessment Program

Impact

If enacted, LD1779 would significantly modify how the state approaches youth involvement in the juvenile justice system. It would require substantial changes in the management and allocation of corrections funds, pushing for a shift from incarceration to support services such as education, job training, and mental health care. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Long Creek Youth Development Center be repurposed to provide community-based services, ensuring that current robust practices are maintained while moving towards more supportive treatment options for youth.

Summary

LD1779 aims to reform the juvenile justice system in Maine by establishing a strength-based, discretionary needs assessment program for juveniles involved with the justice system. This bill focuses on preventing youth incarceration by deploying a continuum of community-based alternatives instead of relying on traditional punitive measures. The bill mandates that the Department of Corrections will work towards developing and implementing individualized transition plans for all juveniles in its custody, emphasizing the importance of addressing the specific needs of each youth in order to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Sentiment

The sentiment around LD1779 varies among lawmakers and stakeholders. Advocates for juvenile justice reform express strong support, highlighting the bill's potential to provide better outcomes for affected youth and reduce recidivism. However, some legislators raised concerns about the bill's implications for public safety and the logistics of implementing such a broad system overhaul. Overall, while many see the transition to community-based alternatives as an essential reform, it remains a contentious point debated within legislative discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the proposed transition away from the traditional youth incarceration model, which has been a standard approach in the state. Lawmakers debated the resources needed for effective implementation of community-based programs versus the costs associated with maintaining the current juvenile detention systems. Concerns were also raised about ensuring adequate mental health and substance use support services are available as alternatives to confinement, revealing differing opinions on the best methodologies for achieving effective rehabilitation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD155

An Act Regarding Community-based Services for Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System

ME HB1216

Supports for Youth in Juvenile Justice System

ME S0149

S.C. Juvenile Justice Reform Act

ME SB111

AN ACT relating to juvenile justice.

ME S2423

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

ME A3678

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

ME A5880

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

ME S4258

Renames Juvenile Justice Commission as Youth Justice Commission.

ME SB242

AN ACT relating to juvenile justice.

ME SB0421

Courts: family division; use of risk and needs assessment for juveniles in the juvenile justice system before disposition; require. Amends sec. 18, ch. XIIA of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 712A.18). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0418'23

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