The bill amends the Kansas juvenile justice code to eliminate the assessment of fines, fees, and costs against juveniles and their guardians, effective July 1, 2025. It discharges any outstanding financial obligations related to court-ordered fines or fees incurred during juvenile justice proceedings and releases juveniles currently under supervision solely for nonpayment of such obligations. However, restitution owed by juveniles remains unaffected. The bill also repeals existing statutes that allowed for the imposition of financial obligations, ensuring that no fees are imposed on juveniles in various contexts, including house arrest programs.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to enhance the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders by prohibiting financial terms for participation in community-based programs and counseling. It emphasizes the use of community-based alternatives to detention and mandates that no costs be imposed on juveniles or their guardians for participation in immediate intervention programs. The bill also outlines the criteria for detaining juveniles, ensuring that such actions are based on risk assessments and community safety. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more supportive and rehabilitative juvenile justice system while minimizing financial burdens on families.

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