Second Chance for Juvenile Offenders Moving in House and Senate

HB 1197 (Ahern) was passed unanimously by its final committee of reference, Judiciary, on Monday, February 21. The proposal provides for expungement of a juvenile's first-time misdemeanor after the offender completes a diversion program. The bill also allows for discretionary use of civil citations for adults. FCCB staff expressed support for the measure at the committee hearing. Companion bill, SB 1392 (Brandes), is in its final committee of reference, Appropriations.

Diversion programs serve as an alternative to criminal arrest and provide a second chance to offenders who make mistakes while still holding them accountable for their actions. Such programs also benefit society by reducing crime, saving the state money and helping build a productive citizenry.