The bill, HB 523, proposes a significant shift in the regulation and licensing of juvenile detention facilities in Louisiana by transferring the licensing authority from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to the Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ), effective July 1, 2024. Key amendments include the requirement for detention screening instruments to be administered according to the Children's Code, the establishment of a new licensing fee structure based on facility capacity, and the imposition of fines for operating without a valid license. The OJJ is also tasked with developing rules to ensure compliance with nationally recognized best practices for juvenile detention.

Additionally, the bill repeals certain provisions related to the approval of alternative detention screening instruments and extends the time a juvenile may be held in an adult jail or lockup from 24 hours to 48 hours under specific conditions. It allows individuals on the state central registry to seek corrections through a written motion instead of a formal request. Overall, HB 523 aims to enhance oversight and standards for juvenile detention facilities, ensuring the safety and welfare of youth in the system while streamlining the regulatory framework by transferring authority to the OJJ.

Statutes affected:
HB523 Original: 15:1110(H)
HB523 Engrossed: 15:1110(H)
HB523 Enrolled: 15:1110(C)(1), 15:1110(F)
HB523 Act 445: 15:1110(C)(1), 15:1110(F)
Conference Committee Report, #3783, House Adopted, Senate Adopted: 15:1110(C)(1)