STATEHOUSE – State Rep. Wendy McNamara’s (R-Evansville) bill to improve Indiana’s juvenile justice system is now with the governor for consideration as a new law.
McNamara said through her bill, specific juvenile programs that receive grants must work together with local and regional justice reinvestment councils and stakeholders to make collaborative service plans.
“When working with at-risk youth, there is not a clear-cut answer or a one-size-fits-all solution,” said McNamara, chair of the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee. “By bringing all parties to the table, all of those working toward helping Hoosier children in need can collaborate and enhance our juvenile justice system.”
McNamara said her bill would also have the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute consider additional recommendations in adopting a funding formula for the Juvenile Diversion Grant Program, the Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program and Juvenile Behavioral Health Competitive Grant Program. The bill would also extend funding for certain juvenile programs to July 1, 2027 instead of July 1, 2025.
