The bill amends the Kansas juvenile justice code to eliminate the assessment of fines, fees, and costs against juveniles or their guardians, ensuring that no financial obligations are imposed in actions under the juvenile justice code. It specifies that any outstanding financial obligations as of July 1, 2025, will be discharged, and juveniles currently under supervision due to nonpayment will be released from their programs. However, the bill clarifies that these provisions do not apply to restitution owed by a juvenile. Additionally, it prohibits the imposition of fees related to court costs, library fees, and supervision costs for house arrest programs, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on families involved in the juvenile justice system.

The bill also introduces various amendments to enhance the juvenile justice process, including guidelines for immediate intervention programs that allow juveniles charged with certain misdemeanors to avoid prosecution without incurring fees. It establishes that juveniles cannot be removed from parental custody unless specific criteria are met and emphasizes community-based alternatives to detention. Furthermore, the bill streamlines the adjudication process for low-risk juveniles, allowing for less formal proceedings and ensuring that such cases do not lead to commitments in juvenile correctional facilities. Overall, the amendments focus on prioritizing rehabilitation and community support over punitive measures, while also ensuring that the legal process remains accessible and fair for young offenders.

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