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 stipulates that any outstanding financial obligations incurred during juvenile justice proceedings will be discharged and not collected, and juveniles currently under supervision solely for nonpayment will be released. However, restitution owed by a juvenile remains unaffected. The bill also prohibits the imposition of fees on juveniles in actions under the revised juvenile justice code, ensuring that financial burdens do not impede their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for immediate intervention programs, allowing eligible juveniles to avoid prosecution for certain misdemeanors without incurring fees. It emphasizes community-based alternatives to detention, prohibits detention solely due to financial noncompliance, and mandates evaluations for juveniles suspected of incompetence due to mental illness. The bill also clarifies that parents of juvenile offenders are not financially responsible for certain costs associated with their child's sanctions and outlines the court's authority in handling cases involving serious offenses. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more rehabilitative and equitable juvenile justice system focused on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.

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