Bills aimed at overhauling Michigan's juvenile justice system are one step closer to Governor Gretchen Whitmer's desk. The Legislature gave final approval last night to a bill package that addresses gaps in the state's juvenile justice system.
These gaps were identified by a task force created by Whitmer in 2021.
Jason Smith is the Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Youth Justice. He says the bills focus more on rehabilitation.
"We're really excited about these changes, I mean, there's a range of things included in this bill package that totally transforms the system to be more rehabilitative. And it puts the focus on treatment and addressing a young person's needs, or the reasons why they come in contact with the juvenile justice system in the first place," he said.
Some of the bills would also eliminate most court fines that can be financial barriers to juveniles and their families.