The bill amends the Kansas juvenile justice code to eliminate the assessment of fines, fees, and costs against juveniles and their guardians, ensuring that no financial obligations are imposed in actions under the revised code. It mandates that any outstanding financial obligations assessed prior to July 1, 2025, will be discharged and not collected, and juveniles currently under supervision due to such obligations will be released. The bill clarifies that these provisions do not apply to restitution owed by a juvenile. Additionally, it modifies various sections of existing law to prevent the imposition of fees or costs on juveniles, including supervision costs associated with house arrest, thereby alleviating the financial burden on families within the juvenile justice system.

Furthermore, the bill introduces alternative adjudication options for juvenile offenders with minimal prior offenses, allowing for less formal processes that do not lead to commitments in correctional facilities. It emphasizes the development of reintegration plans for juveniles placed outside their homes and ensures that juveniles are exempt from DNA database fees. The bill also repeals several existing statutes related to juvenile justice and establishes that it will take effect upon publication in the statute book. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance rehabilitation, streamline processes, and protect the rights and privacy of juveniles while ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to justice and support services.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 12-16, 20-3129, 21-6609, 22-4905, 28-170, 28-170a, 28-176, 28-177, 38-2306, 38-2312, 38-2315, 38-2317, 38-2328, 38-2331, 38-2346, 38-2348, 38-2360, 38-2361, 38-2362, 38-2369, 38-2373, 38-2384, 38-2389, 38-2380, 38-2396, 38-2399, 75-724