Michigan House Bill HB5390

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Juveniles: juvenile justice services; compressive education and training programs for juvenile justice reform; provide for. Creates new act.

Impact

The establishment of the Juveniles in Incarceration Education Fund is a significant component of HB 5390. It allows the board to distribute grants of varying amounts to organizations or individuals proposing innovative educational programs targeted at incarcerated youth or those who have recently been released. Specifically, grants will prioritize those programs led by or created for formerly incarcerated individuals or justice-impacted individuals, thus fostering community involvement and support in education innovation tailored to the needs of at-risk youth. Additionally, the board has the authority to report annually on the impact of these programs in terms of lowering recidivism rates and educational attainment.

Summary

House Bill 5390, known as the Daniel Jones Juveniles in Incarceration Education Act, aims to establish a framework for improving educational opportunities for incarcerated juveniles. The bill creates the Juveniles in Incarceration Education Board, which will oversee the establishment of educational programs designed to reduce juveniles' interaction with the justice system. This board will be tasked with developing curricula that go beyond obtaining a high school diploma, focusing on scientific skills and technology to encourage better developmental outcomes and, ultimately, to prevent recidivism among youth within the justice system.

Contention

While the intent of HB 5390 is to enhance educational opportunities for juveniles and reduce recidivism, it may face contention concerning budget allocations and the effectiveness of proposed educational programs. Critics may question the efficacy of educational grants in achieving desired outcomes and prompt debates on whether these funds could instead be used for more comprehensive reforms across the juvenile justice system. Moreover, the inclusivity criteria for organizations eligible for grants could incite discussions regarding potential favoritism towards specific organizations or community groups, especially those led by justice-impacted individuals.