Governor Sam Brownback has signed into law legislation that overhauls the juvenile justice system in Kansas. The changes will allow more low-risk juvenile offenders to stay out of detention centers and instead take part in community-based rehabilitation programs. Brownback says this promotes the rehabilitation of youth instead of focusing on incarceration.
“Senate Bill 367 offers practical, sensible reform. This bill is about being smart on crime. It’s about making sure our communities are safe while juveniles are held accountable for their actions,” says Brownback.
The reduced focus on sending juveniles to group homes or correctional facilities can save the state money with the goal of investing in more community-based services. The overhaul was prompted by data showing Kansas has a higher-than average rate of juvenile incarceration.