Ohio's Juvenile Justice System Overhaul: What You Need to Know

Ohio's Governor Signs Bill to Reform Juvenile Justice System

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 240 into law on March 31, 2023, marking a significant step towards transforming the state's juvenile justice system. This comprehensive bill aims to provide a more rehabilitative and restorative approach to juvenile justice, prioritizing the well-being and successful reintegration of youth into society.

Key Provisions of the New Law

• Raise the age of juvenile court jurisdiction to 18: Starting in 2025, individuals between the ages of 18 and 21 will no longer be automatically tried as adults in criminal court. Instead, they will be adjudicated in juvenile court, where they can receive age-appropriate interventions and support.
• Expands access to diversion programs: The bill creates a statewide diversion program for youth facing non-violent offenses. These programs provide alternatives to traditional court proceedings, such as counseling, community service, and restorative justice circles, to help youth avoid the negative consequences of a criminal record.
• Limits the use of detention: The new law restricts the use of pretrial detention for youth, except in cases where there is a serious risk of harm to themselves or others. It also requires that youth be placed in the least restrictive setting appropriate to their needs.
• Enhances educational and vocational opportunities: The bill provides funding for educational and vocational programs within juvenile detention facilities and community-based settings. These programs aim to improve youth's academic skills, prepare them for employment, and reduce recidivism rates.
• Provides support for youth aging out of foster care: The new law extends foster care services to individuals up to age 21 who were previously in the foster care system. This support includes housing assistance, case management, and educational and employment counseling.

Benefits of the Juvenile Justice Reform

The Ohio juvenile justice reform is expected to have numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced youth incarceration rates: Raising the age of juvenile court jurisdiction and expanding diversion programs are likely to lead to a significant decrease in the number of youth incarcerated in Ohio.
• Improved youth outcomes: The rehabilitative and restorative approach of the new law is designed to improve the well-being of youth, reduce recidivism, and promote their successful reintegration into society.
• Reduced racial disparities: Black youth are disproportionately represented in the juvenile justice system. The new law's focus on diversion and rehabilitation is expected to reduce these disparities and create a more equitable system.
• Cost savings: The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction estimates that the juvenile justice reform will save the state millions of dollars in incarceration costs over the next decade.

Conclusion

Ohio's juvenile justice reform is a landmark achievement that represents a fundamental shift in the state's approach to youth justice. The new law prioritizes rehabilitation, diversion, and support services, with the goal of reducing youth incarceration rates, improving youth outcomes, and creating a more just and equitable system.