The bill HB352 amends Sections 12-15-208 and 12-15-215 of the Code of Alabama 1975, focusing on the treatment and management of juvenile offenders by the Department of Youth Services (DYS). A key insertion in the bill is the requirement for DYS to reimburse county detention facilities for housing a child once that child has been ordered into DYS custody. The bill also introduces new provisions for short-term secure custody of status offenders for investigative purposes and clarifies the definitions and conditions under which certain categories of juveniles may be detained. Notably, it removes specific language regarding the detention of status offenders and nonoffenders, as well as the conditions for holding children aged 10 and younger in secure custody.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the responsibilities of the juvenile court and DYS in managing juvenile detention facilities, mandating the use of only licensed facilities and requiring immediate notification to the juvenile court when a child is received at an adult jail. It also specifies that no person under 18 shall be detained in adult jails, with exceptions for processing cases. The bill further clarifies the criteria for determining a child's amenability to treatment and outlines the responsibilities of juvenile probation officers. Overall, HB352 aims to enhance the protection and rehabilitation of juveniles within the justice system while ensuring compliance with legal standards and federal funding eligibility requirements. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.