The bill seeks to rename the "Juvenile Justice Commission" to the "Youth Justice Commission" throughout New Jersey's existing legislation, reflecting a modernized and youth-centered approach to juvenile justice. This change is implemented by replacing the term "Juvenile" with "Youth" in various sections of the law, including the title of the act and definitions. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the newly named commission, such as determining juvenile detention locations, establishing minimum standards for detention facilities, and enhancing data collection related to juvenile delinquency cases. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of family involvement and the unique needs of juveniles when determining appropriate dispositions, while ensuring that victims' voices are included in the process.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the testing of juveniles for HIV/AIDS in specific circumstances, clarifies the criteria for juvenile incarceration, and establishes a State/Community Partnership Grant Program to support county youth services. It mandates that the Youth Justice Commission oversee these initiatives and develop a comprehensive plan for juvenile justice services. The bill aims to enhance the rehabilitative focus of the juvenile justice system, improve educational rights for children in state facilities, and ensure that resources are allocated effectively to support at-risk youth, ultimately promoting their growth into responsible citizens.

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