Session: 2023-2024
ACLU-PA Position: Supports
HB 1708 (PN 2020) would enact a recommendation of the bipartisan Juvenile Justice Task Force by expanding school diversion across the state to ensure that youth have a chance at in-school resolution in lieu of court referral for less serious issues. It would create a recurring funding stream for schools to support those diversion programs and would make provisions for improved school stability for youth while they’re in juvenile justice placements and when they return to the community. Specifically, the bill would provide the following:
- Educational oversight for students in facilities;
- Increased school stability for certain students;
- Expanded reporting requirements;
- Creation of a School-Based Diversion Programs Fund;
- Limitations on proceedings and arrests for certain student offenses; and
- Updates to the definition of weapon possession.
In order to achieve educational success for all young people, school officials, law enforcement, and others who work with students, we must seek to avoid juvenile justice involvement and instead use school- and community-based restorative tools to address young people’s misbehavior. Many jurisdictions are already deploying successful diversionary approaches to address young people’s needs without a court referral. These alternatives, including restorative practices, mental health services, and other school-based interventions, allow law enforcement to focus on the most serious behaviors that truly threaten community safety.
HB 1708 would improve educational outcomes and support for students who have been placed in facilities or involved in the juvenile justice system, enhance school safety and diversion programs, and ensure effective practices are in place statewide, no matter where a young person lives.
Check the bill's status here.
