The bill seeks to rename the "Juvenile Justice Commission" to the "Youth Justice Commission" throughout New Jersey's legal framework, reflecting a modernized approach to youth justice. This change involves replacing the term "Juvenile" with "Youth" in various legal contexts, including the title of the act and definitions related to the commission's responsibilities. The amendments aim to enhance the structure and function of the juvenile justice system, emphasizing a rehabilitative approach that aligns with contemporary understandings of youth and justice. Additionally, the bill clarifies the roles of the Youth Justice Commission, including the determination of detention facilities, data collection on juvenile delinquency, and the publication of biennial reports to inform legislative recommendations.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions that enhance the evaluation and rehabilitation processes for juveniles, such as allowing courts to consult with relevant agencies before making dispositions and expanding predisposition reports to include victim impact statements. It emphasizes the importance of family involvement and the unique needs of juveniles when determining appropriate dispositions. The bill also establishes a framework for the management of juvenile records, confidentiality, and the responsibilities of various state departments in supporting at-risk youth. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the effectiveness of juvenile justice services, promote public safety, and ensure the rights and well-being of both juveniles and victims are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-20, 2A:4A-22, 2A:4A-26.1, 2A:4A-37, 2A:4A-42, 2A:4A-43, 2A:4A-43.4, 2A:4A-44, 2A:4A-44.1, 2A:4A-44.2, 2A:4A-44.3, 2A:4A-44.4, 2A:4A-60, 2C:7-2, 2C:7-3, 2C:7-4, 2C:14-14, 2C:29-10, 2C:33-15.1, 2C:43-2.2, 2C:46-4, 2C:58-6.1, 9:6-8.40, 9:22-9, 9:23-2, 11A:2-11.1, 18A:7B-4, 18A:7B-5, 18A:7B-7, 18A:7B-12, 18A:7B-13, 18A:7C-12, 18A:7F-24, 18A:7F-45, 18A:71B-88, 18A:71B-89, 18A:71B-90, 18A:71B-96, 30:4-6.2, 30:4-27.26, 30:4-82.4, 30:4-91.15, 30:4-123.45, 30:4-123.103, 30:4-157.4, 30:4-157.7, 30:7E-7, 30:8-63, 30:9A-25, 34:15C-6, 34:15F-12, 40A:14-200, 52:4B-8.1, 52:16A-26.10, 52:17B-67, 52:17B-169, 52:17B-170, 52:17B-171.1, 52:17B-171.2, 52:17B-171.3, 52:17B-171.5, 52:17B-171.6, 52:17B-171.7, 52:17B-171.8, 52:17B-171.9, 52:17B-171.10, 52:17B-171.11, 52:17B-171.12, 52:17B-171.13, 52:17B-171.14, 52:17B-172, 52:17B-174, 52:17B-176, 52:17B-178, 52:17B-179, 52:17B-180, 52:17B-183, 55:19-60