The bill proposes to rename the "Juvenile Justice Commission" to the "Youth Justice Commission," reflecting a modernized approach to juvenile justice in New Jersey. This change is implemented throughout existing legislation, including the New Jersey Code of Juvenile Justice, where the term "Juvenile" is replaced with "Youth." The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the Youth Justice Commission and the Department of Children and Families, particularly regarding the detention and shelter care of youth. It mandates the collection and analysis of data related to juvenile delinquency cases and requires the commission to publish biennial reports, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the assessment and disposition of juvenile delinquency cases, allowing courts to consult a broader range of individuals and agencies. It emphasizes the importance of considering the juvenile's financial resources in restitution matters and updates the factors courts must consider when determining appropriate dispositions. The bill also establishes a State/Community Partnership Grant Program to support county youth services commissions, ensuring that funding is directed towards enhancing youth support rather than replacing existing resources. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more rehabilitative and supportive environment for youth involved in the justice system.

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, 30:4-27.26, 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