The bill amends the Juvenile Diversion Act by revising Section 9 to enhance the confidentiality and use of records kept under this act. It establishes that records can only be used to make decisions regarding the diversion of minors, with an exception allowing individuals or organizations to submit research requests for these records. If granted, a data use agreement must be negotiated to protect personally identifiable information from public disclosure. The state court administrative office may charge researchers for processing these requests, and the data provided under such agreements is exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the state court administrative office and individual courts in maintaining records of research requests, including the dates received and granted, as well as descriptions of the data released. It also clarifies that any risk or mental health screening tools and information obtained from minors during these screenings are not admissible in adjudicatory hearings or subject to subpoena. The bill introduces definitions for "data use agreement" and "personally identifiable information" to ensure clarity in the handling of sensitive data. The amendments will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 722.829
As Passed by the Senate: 722.829