The bill amends the Revised Code to enhance the legal framework for the commitment and rehabilitation of delinquent children within the juvenile justice system. Key changes include the introduction of new criteria for committing children aged fourteen and older for serious offenses, such as felonies, and the establishment of specific minimum and maximum commitment periods based on the severity of the crime. The bill clarifies that children adjudicated for fourth or fifth-degree felonies may only be committed under certain conditions, and it emphasizes the court's control over commitment duration and placement changes. Additionally, it introduces provisions for monitoring children under house arrest, requiring compliance with court-imposed conditions and establishing consequences for violations.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the judicial release process, allowing both the Department of Youth Services and the child's parent to request a release, with the court required to respond within specified timeframes. It also updates the definition of "felony delinquent," changing the age threshold from ten to fourteen years, and emphasizes the confidentiality of youth information. The bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the juvenile justice system, including the management of records and communication with parents, while ensuring that children are held in facilities separate from adults. Notably, it adds a new category (f) to section 2152.16 of the Revised Code regarding commitment criteria and repeals several existing sections, aiming to improve rehabilitation and accountability for delinquent youth.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2152.16, 2152.17, 2152.19, 2152.22, 2152.26, 5139.01, 5139.05, 5139.06, 5139.20, 5139.35, 5139.51