The bill amends the Kansas juvenile justice code to enhance the treatment and management of juvenile offenders, particularly those involved in serious offenses. Key changes include increasing the cumulative detention limit for juvenile offenders from 45 to 90 days and establishing stricter minimum and maximum commitment terms for those using firearms during offenses, raising the minimum from six to twelve months and the maximum from eighteen to twenty-four months. The bill also introduces new classifications for serious crimes against children under 14, such as aggravated human trafficking and rape, and allows courts to prohibit juvenile offenders from attending the same schools as their victims. Additionally, it mandates the Secretary of Corrections to oversee the placement of juvenile offenders in non-foster home beds and to prepare permanency plans for juveniles in custody.

Furthermore, the legislation emphasizes the importance of risk assessments in determining the commitment and aftercare of juvenile offenders, categorizing them based on the severity of their offenses and their assessed risk levels. It establishes a Kansas juvenile justice oversight committee to monitor the implementation of these reforms and evaluate their effectiveness, including tracking recidivism rates. The bill also creates an evidence-based programs account to fund community programs for juvenile offenders and their families, allowing for expenditures of up to $10 million annually for youth residential facilities. Overall, the bill aims to improve the juvenile justice system by focusing on accountability, rehabilitation, and community-based alternatives.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2361, 38-2365, 38-2369, 38-2399, 75-52
As Amended by House Committee: 38-2391, 75-52, 38-2361, 38-2365, 38-2369, 38-2399, 75-7023
{As Amended by House Committee of the Whole}: 38-2391, 75-52, 38-2361, 38-2365, 38-2369, 38-2399, 75-7023