Contact:
Mara Powell
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement from Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

LOUISVILLE, KY – As the General Assembly wrestles with the complex issue of juvenile justice, Senator Danny Carroll continues to lead. His additions to House Bill 3 with the Senate Committee Substitute underscore the potential to improve public safety, hold youth accountable for mistakes, and focus on getting those young people back on the right track. Those additions include:

• Delaying the implementation of the 48-hour hold mandate for one year.
• Establishing the 48-hour hold mandate does not apply to children 10-years-old or younger.
• Allowing for community organizations to connect with a young person when they are detained.
• Before developing the diversion agreement to be shared with FAIR teams, Court Designated Workers will connect with the school district of the child to get background information about the family, education records, and any previous services they have received.
• Allowing the referral of a child’s case to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to conduct an investigation of suspected dependency, neglect, or abuse after assessing the needs of the child.

Senator Carroll’s unique biography – law enforcement officer and child advocate – is a shining example for his legislative colleagues around this effort.

Stay up-to-date on Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids on our Kentucky General Assembly Bill Tracker.

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About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.