HB 197

Abstract

This Act is a recommendation following the comprehensive analysis of the Family Court Adjudicated Drug Court Program conducted by Family Court, the Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families, the Department of Justice, and the Office of Defense Services. Repeal of the Family Court Adjudicated Drug Court Program is also supported by the Government Efficiency and Accountability Review Board as noted in its 2018 Annual Report. After a comprehensive analysis of the program, it was determined that the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services (YRS) had implemented practices, including the use of an assessment tool, that are identifying and then effectively and efficiently addressing the needs of justice involved youth with substance use disorders. The review found that YRS’ active case management practices allowed YRS to be responsive to each child’s service needs and to involve the Court as necessary. Recent juvenile justice reforms, including civil citation, are also keeping many youth from entering the justice system while simultaneously ensuring that any identified substance use disorders are addressed. Given the high level of individualized treatment services and case management youth are currently receiving inside and outside the juvenile justice system, repeal of the program was recommended.