The proposed bill establishes the Youth Detention Task Force in New Jersey, aimed at evaluating the current state of youth detention facilities and recommending the most effective system for serving this population. The task force will assess various factors, including available resources, safety protocols, staff training, and rehabilitation opportunities. It will consist of 25 members, including four legislative members, ten ex officio members from various state departments, and public members appointed by both the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the General Assembly, as well as three members with expertise in youth offender adjudication appointed by the Governor.

The task force is required to organize within 60 days of a majority of its members being appointed and will be supported administratively by the Youth Justice Commission. It must submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any legislative proposals, to the Governor and the Legislature within 18 months of its initial meeting. The task force will dissolve 30 days after the report is submitted. This initiative follows a December 2024 ruling that placed the Youth Justice Commission in charge of youth detention placements, prompting a comprehensive review of the current system to determine its effectiveness and potential alternatives.