This bill amends various sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to improve the juvenile justice system, particularly for juveniles charged with felonies after unsuccessful rehabilitation under the Nebraska Juvenile Code. Key changes include raising the age threshold for certain criminal proceedings from fourteen to sixteen years for serious felonies and allowing the transfer of cases involving younger juveniles (ages thirteen to fifteen) to juvenile court under specific conditions. The bill also establishes that any admission or statement made by a juvenile to mental health professionals during transfer motions will be inadmissible in criminal or civil proceedings, with certain exceptions. Additionally, it outlines procedures for arraignment, transfer hearings, and appeals, ensuring juveniles are informed of their rights and the potential consequences of their cases.

Furthermore, the bill introduces significant provisions for the Office of Juvenile Services, including involvement in the commitment and discharge processes of juveniles, development of individualized reentry plans, and notification requirements for interested parties prior to discharge. It allows county attorneys to file motions to dismiss juvenile petitions and refile charges as criminal proceedings in district court, along with a structured hearing process for such motions. The legislation emphasizes assessing a juvenile's amenability to rehabilitation and allows for hearings to determine this, ultimately aiming to create a more rehabilitative and fair approach to juvenile justice in Nebraska while ensuring due process for juveniles involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29-1816, 43-246.01, 43-251.01, 43-252, 43-276, 43-279, 43-286, 43-424