This bill amends various sections of Nebraska law to enhance the legal protections and treatment of juveniles and young adults within the justice system. It establishes that criminal prosecutions for individuals under eighteen must maintain confidentiality regarding their identity throughout all stages of the proceedings. The bill also extends the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Juvenile Code to individuals up to twenty-six years of age, raising the age limit for certain legal provisions from eighteen to twenty-two years for sentencing purposes, particularly for Class IA and IB felonies. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for custodial interrogations, ensuring that young adults are informed of their rights and can consult with an attorney without delay, while prohibiting the use of statements made during interrogations if proper protocols are not followed.

Key changes include the expansion of the definition of "juvenile" to include individuals under twenty-six who have been adjudicated for serious felonies, and the requirement for law enforcement to notify a juvenile's parent or guardian promptly when taken into custody. The bill also mandates that juveniles be delivered to their enrolled schools when taken into custody and specifies that they must be placed in the least restrictive environment if not released under certain conditions. Furthermore, it emphasizes confidentiality measures for juvenile adjudications and outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of Probation Administration in overseeing reporting centers. Overall, the legislation reflects a shift towards a more rehabilitative approach, aiming to improve the treatment and legal processes surrounding juveniles in Nebraska's juvenile justice system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-105.01, 28-105.02, 29-401, 29-2204, 43-245, 43-248.01, 43-249, 43-250, 43-253