This bill would move the state away from using adult punitive actions against children. It would also stop the state from committing children to the Department of Juvenile Justice for “status offenses,” or behaviors that are only illegal because of someone’s status as a minor. Examples of status offenses include truancy and delinquency. Before committing a child to DJJ for incorrigibility, parents or guardians would have to show they have tried counseling first.
The bill would forbid the state from placing juveniles in secure confinement in adult jails.
We support this bill because: South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice facilities are dangerously overcrowded, and the agency frequently fails in its mission of rehabilitating young people. Too many children, especially Black children, are held in DJJ facilities for nonviolent offenses like truancy or delinquency. This bill would make several positive changes to ensure children are given a chance at rehabilitation rather than confinement or punishment.
