Modifies provisions relating to juvenile detention centers
Impact
The legislation aims to create a more structured approach toward juvenile detention by enabling counties to coordinate the development of facilities that adhere to specified standards. These standards will ensure that children in detention do not come into contact with adult inmates and receive care comparable to that of children in supportive home environments. This change in law emphasizes the responsibility of county commissions or authorized bodies to ensure the effective functioning and oversight of juvenile detention facilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 809 modifies existing provisions related to juvenile detention centers in Missouri by repealing certain sections of the current statutes and enacting new sections. The bill seeks to empower counties of the first, second, third, and fourth classifications to establish and fund a place of detention for juveniles. It allows these counties to impose a sales tax of up to one percent on retail sales to fund the construction and operation of such facilities. This sales tax is supplementary to other sales taxes and must be approved by voters in the respective counties through a ballot proposal.
Contention
One significant area of contention surrounding SB 809 is the proposed funding mechanism, which relies on a sales tax increase that requires voter approval. Critics may argue that imposing additional taxes during challenging economic times could be burdensome for local communities. Furthermore, the requirement that multiple counties collaborate and agree on the development of joint detention facilities could lead to logistical and administrative complexities. The implications of this bill will likely generate discussions about community resource allocation and the balance between state and local responsibilities in juvenile justice.
Creates new $100 assessment for convictions of certain sexual offenses to fund counseling for victims and their families; establishes Sexual Offender Victim Counseling Fund.