This bill amends various sections of Nebraska law to exempt individuals under nineteen years of age from certain court fees, costs, probation fees, and DNA collection and testing costs. It establishes a presumption of indigence for these individuals concerning fees related to criminal discovery and prohibits the recovery of costs and fees from juveniles and their parents or guardians in proceedings under the Nebraska Juvenile Code. Key insertions include the specification that no fees will be charged for services such as docket fees, legal services fees, and DNA sample collection costs for individuals described in the act. The bill also modifies provisions related to juvenile pretrial diversion programs, appointed counsel, and the recoupment of certain costs, while prohibiting the imposition of fines as penalties in juvenile proceedings.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of county boards in reviewing and approving bills of costs related to felony complaints, ensuring that unlawful or unnecessary costs are disallowed. It mandates that the state or county will cover member contributions for retirement plans and introduces a requirement for the Nebraska Retirement Systems Committee to receive an actuary's recommendation regarding contribution rate adjustments. The bill emphasizes equitable access to justice by ensuring that no fees will be charged to individuals described in the act for probation-related costs and that the court must waive fees if payment would cause undue hardship. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more supportive and fair environment for juveniles navigating the legal process while streamlining the financial obligations associated with court proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24-703, 25-1140.09, 25-1914, 25-3010, 29-1903, 29-1920, 29-2207, 29-2262, 29-2262.04, 29-2262.06, 29-2704, 29-4106, 29-4121, 33-103, 33-106, 33-107.01, 33-107.03, 33-124, 33-126.05, 33-154, 33-155, 33-156, 33-157, 43-254, 43-260.04, 43-261, 43-272, 43-290, 47-633, 81-1429